FIFA removes referee from 2026 World Cup list after allegations of abuse against a minor
FIFA has officially suspended Dutch referee Rob Dieperink from officiating at the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
Details: According to The Athletic, the drastic decision comes after an incident in April: London Metropolitan Police detained the referee on suspicion of sexual abuse involving a minor. Despite being one of the leading VAR specialists, Dieperink has lost the right to represent his country at the world's premier tournament.
Dieperink himself claims that the case has already been closed due to lack of evidence, and London police do not intend to bring formal charges. Nevertheless, the reputational damage proved too severe for international football authorities.
The Royal Netherlands Football Association issued an official statement in support of the referee, but this had no impact on FIFA's position, as the organization seeks to minimize any ethical risks surrounding the World Cup.
The vacant spot on the officiating team will most likely be filled by French referee Willy Delajod. His appointment is expected to be confirmed in the near future to complete the lineup of video assistant referee teams.
Reminder: Chelsea striker may miss the World Cup due to Neymar.
Steven Perez
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