Referee Dropped from World Cup After Sexual Assault Investigation

FIFA has removed referee Rob Dieperink from the World Cup officials list following his arrest in April by London's Metropolitan Police on suspicion of sexual assault against a minor.

Despite the case being dismissed by British police without any charges being filed, football's global governing body decided to sideline the Dutchman, who had been selected as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) for the tournament. "FIFA can confirm that Rob Dieperink has been removed from the World Cup match officials list," The Athletic reported.

Sources familiar with the matter indicated to the same outlet that French referee Willy Delajod is expected to replace Dieperink.

Speaking to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Rob Dieperink expressed regret over the decision, describing it as a "shame" and conveying his disappointment.

"It makes me very sad to have been unfairly accused. I fully cooperated with the police investigation and immediately provided full transparency to FIFA, UEFA, and the KNVB. The allegations were refuted, and the case was dismissed within two weeks after a proper and thorough police investigation."

The referee further added that he was "grateful for the support" he received from the Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) and how they handled the case. "It's a shame that FIFA decided not to appoint me for the World Cup; I am naturally disappointed by that," he concluded.

Meanwhile, the KNVB, Dieperink's employer, expressed its support for the official. A federation spokesperson stated: "We advocate for a safe and honest football culture at all levels and always take reports of undesirable behavior seriously. Obviously, we believe a Dutch referee must exhibit unquestionable conduct, but we also deem it important that he has the opportunity to tell his story and not be unfairly accused."

The Dutch federation emphasized that, based on all available information and the case's dismissal, they see "no reason not to appoint him for Dutch league matches." However, the same spokesperson confirmed that Dieperink would not officiate this weekend. "Given the news coverage and its impact on Rob, we are withdrawing him from this weekend's appointment, in his best interest and the interest of the game," he explained.