PGMOL has taken the decision to sack Premier League referee David Coote following the controversy involving Liverpool and former manager Jurgen Klopp.
The 42-year-old English official's actions have led to widespread condemnation, including allegations of xenophobic remarks aimed at Klopp and other inappropriate behavior that were recorded on video.
PGMOL, which governs refereeing in English football, launched a comprehensive investigation into Coote's behavior after a series of allegations emerged. The results of the investigation confirmed that Coote had violated the provisions of his employment contract and, as a result, his position as a Premier League referee was deemed unacceptable.
In an official statement issued on X, PGMOL confirmed Coote's termination, although the referee reserved the right to appeal the decision:
The full text of the statement was:
“Following the completion of a comprehensive investigation into David Coote’s conduct, his employment with PGMOL has been terminated today with immediate effect.”
“David Coote’s actions were found to constitute a serious breach of the terms of his employment contract, as he deemed his position unacceptable.”
“Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us and we remain committed to his well-being.
David Cote has the right to appeal the decision to terminate his employment.”
????????? – ????? ?????
Following the completion of a comprehensive investigation into David Coote's conduct, his employment with PGMOL has been terminated today with immediate effect.
David Coote's actions were found to constitute a serious violation of the provisions of…
– PG Mall (@FA_PGMOL) December 9, 2024
The controversy that led to the dismissal of David Coote
The controversy began with a leaked video in which Kott made insulting and xenophobic comments about Klopp. Reports suggest the footage dates back to the 2020-21 season, a time when Coote worked as VAR during the Merseyside derby between Liverpool and Everton. In that match, Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford avoided a penalty for a challenge on Virgil van Dijk's season-ending injury, leading to significant criticism of Cote's management.
The situation escalated when another video appeared. It allegedly shows Coote snorting a white substance During Euro 2024. UEFA immediately suspended him while they conducted their own investigation.
Starting, Cote denied the authenticity of the footage But he later turned around, stating that he could not remember the exact content of the conversation.
Following the PGMOL investigation and initial decision, UEFA also chose to remove Coote from consideration of match officiating within its remit, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
