subscribe Support our award-winning journalism. The Premium package (digital only) is R30 for the first month and thereafter you pay R129 p/m now ad-free for all subscribers.
Subscribe now
English Premier League referee David Coote. Picture: REUTERS/ANDREW BOYERS
English Premier League referee David Coote. Picture: REUTERS/ANDREW BOYERS

English soccer referees’ body the PGMOL says it is taking new allegations against David Coote seriously and European football body Uefa has suspended him from the Premier League referee.

The Sun published a video on Wednesday that the newspaper said showed Coote appearing to snort white powder during his time working as a match official at Euro 2024.

The video has not been verified by Reuters.

“We are aware of the allegations and are taking them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation,” a PGMOL spokesperson said.

“David’s welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period.”

Reuters has approached Coote, through the PGMOL, for comment.

Coote, 42, was suspended on Monday pending a full investigation after another video circulated on social media showing the official allegedly abusing Liverpool and former manager Jürgen Klopp.

Uefa said it had taken action against Coote earlier in the week.

“The Uefa referees’ committee immediately suspended David Coote until further notice on November 11 — in advance of the upcoming round of Uefa matches — when it became aware of his inappropriate behaviour,” a Uefa spokesperson said.

Reuters

subscribe Support our award-winning journalism. The Premium package (digital only) is R30 for the first month and thereafter you pay R129 p/m now ad-free for all subscribers.
Subscribe now

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.