Former Premier League referee David Coote has been charged by the Football Association (FA) over inappropriate comments he made about ex-Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp in a video leaked on social media. The 42-year-old, who was suspended in November 2024 and later sacked by the Premier League referees’ body, now faces formal disciplinary action under FA rule E3.1 for alleged improper conduct and use of abusive and insulting language.
The controversy began in late 2024 when a video surfaced showing Coote making derogatory remarks about Klopp, including an “aggravated” breach related to referencing Klopp’s nationality. The video quickly went viral, sparking outrage among football fans and officials. Coote’s employer at the time, Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), conducted a thorough investigation and dismissed him in December 2024.
In addition to the comments about Klopp, Coote was also accused of discussing issuing a yellow card to a player before a match, a potential gambling-related misconduct. However, the FA cleared him of any wrongdoing on that front. Coote strongly denied these allegations, calling them “false and defamatory.”
Earlier this year, Coote was banned by UEFA from officiating European matches until June 30, 2026. This followed the emergence of a video from Euro 2024 showing Coote sniffing a white powder substance while on duty, further fueling controversy around his conduct.
Coote, originally from Nottinghamshire, made headlines in January 2025 when he publicly came out as gay. He revealed he had concealed his sexuality during his refereeing career due to fears of abuse and discrimination. In an interview with a major newspaper, he also admitted to struggling with drug addiction, a habit he has since overcome through therapy.
Despite these personal challenges, the leaked video and his comments about Klopp have left a lasting stain on Coote’s reputation within the football community. The FA now holds jurisdiction over his case as the comments surfaced while he was still an active official.
Under FA rules, if Coote admits guilt, an independent regulatory commission will decide his punishment, which could include fines or suspension from football activities. If he denies the charges, the commission will review the evidence and make a ruling accordingly.
The FA disciplinary regulations state that failure to pay any fines within the prescribed deadline will result in an automatic 25% increase in the fine amount. Continued non-payment for more than 35 days could lead to a suspension from all football-related activities until the debt is settled.
Currently, Coote is not involved in any football activities. The FA’s jurisdiction applies because the video was recorded and made public while he was still an active referee. If he were to make similar comments now while outside the football industry, the FA would not have authority to sanction him.
The case highlights the ongoing issues of professionalism and conduct in football officiating. Coote’s situation serves as a reminder of the high standards referees must uphold both on and off the pitch.
As the disciplinary process unfolds, many in the football world await the commission’s decision. The outcome will likely have implications for how football authorities handle cases of misconduct by officials, especially in the era of social media where private moments can quickly become public controversies.
David Coote’s story is a complex one—marked by personal struggles, career highs, and significant lows. His upcoming hearing will determine his future within football and send a clear message about accountability and respect in the sport.
