The world football community is shocked by the news that Dutch VAR referee Rob Dieperink passed away at the age of 38. The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) confirmed that he was found dead at his home in Borculo, Gelderland province on July 13. The cause of death has not yet been announced by authorities.
Rob Dieperink, born in 1988, is one of the most experienced VAR referees in Dutch football. He has participated in officiating many matches in the Dutch national championship, UEFA tournaments, and also participated in the VAR referee team at EURO 2024. Previously, FIFA also included him in the list expected to perform duties at the 2026 World Cup.
However, in April this year, Dieperink was investigated after being accused of sexually assaulting a teenager in London (UK). After verification, the investigating agency concluded that there was not enough basis to continue prosecution and the case was closed.
However, FIFA still decided to remove Dieperink from the list of referees on duty at the 2026 World Cup.
After this decision, the Dutch referee expressed disappointment when saying that he was innocent and had fully cooperated with functional agencies as well as football organizations in the investigation process.
In the condolences announcement, KNVB said: "We are extremely shocked and saddened by the passing of Rob Dieperink. The refereeing community has lost an internationally experienced referee, who is also a dedicated and respected colleague. We would like to extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.
According to information from KNVB, Dieperink still participated in officiating a friendly match in the locality just days before his death. After he was removed from the list of duties, FIFA added French referee Willy Delajod to the VAR team serving the 2026 World Cup.
