New Delhi, July 14 -- Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink has died just weeks after he was removed from FIFA's officiating team for the 2026 World Cup following a police investigation in Britain that was later closed without charges.
The 38-year-old had been selected as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) for the World Cup but was taken off FIFA's list of match officials in May. The reason for his death has not been made public.
The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) paid tribute to Dieperink, describing him as a respected official and a valued colleague.
"We are shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Rob Dieperink. With Rob's passing, the football world has lost a highly regarded referee with international experience, but above...