Full Breakdown
FIFA Removes Dutch VAR Official from World Cup Roster
5/16/2026, 1:31:19 AM
FIFA Removes VAR Official Rob Dieperink from World Cup List
On 15 May 2026, FIFA announced that Rob Dieperink, a Dutch referee selected as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) for the upcoming summer World Cup, had been removed from the tournament’s official list of match officials.
Background: Dieperink’s Career and the Allegations
Dieperink, a regular referee in the Dutch Eredivisie, was arrested on 9 April in Croydon, London, after a report of sexual assault involving a teenage boy. The Metropolitan Police conducted a two-week investigation, reviewing CCTV and digital devices, and concluded that the evidential threshold had not been met, resulting in no further action.
Timeline of Key Developments
- 9 April 2026 – Police arrest Dieperink in Croydon on suspicion of sexual assault.
- Mid-April 2026 – Metropolitan Police complete investigation; case closed with no charges.
- 15 May 2026 – FIFA confirms Dieperink’s removal from World Cup officials list.
- 15 May 2026 – KNVB announces Dieperink will miss upcoming domestic matches.
Official Statements & Responses
FIFA issued a brief notice confirming Dieperink’s removal, citing the need to maintain the tournament’s integrity. A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said the evidential threshold had not been met and no further action would be taken. The KNVB emphasized its commitment to a safe football culture, noted Dieperink’s full cooperation, and affirmed his eligibility for Dutch league matches while removing him from the immediate weekend schedule.
Criticism & Opposition
Dieperink described his exclusion as a “pity” and expressed sadness at being “wrongly accused,” highlighting personal disappointment with FIFA’s decision despite the police clearance. His remarks underscore tension between procedural caution and individual reputational harm.
Impact on the Tournament and Domestic Football
FIFA must appoint a replacement VAR, prompting the promotion of French referee Willy Delajod. In the Netherlands, Dieperink’s temporary removal from the weekend lineup reflects the governing body’s effort to balance media scrutiny with match integrity.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Metropolitan Police closed the case citing insufficient evidence, FIFA proceeded with Dieperink’s removal, indicating a precautionary stance that diverges from the police’s conclusion. No public rationale beyond integrity concerns has been detailed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Following these enquiries, they concluded that the evidential threshold had not been met.” — Metropolitan Police spokesperson
- “Following these enquiries, they concluded that the evidential threshold had not been met. No further action will be taken.” — Metropolitan Police spokesperson
- “It makes me very sad that I have been wrongly accused,” — Rob Dieperink, referee
- “We stand for a safe and honest football culture at all levels and always take reports of unwanted behaviour seriously,” — KNVB spokesperson
- “Given the news coverage and its impact on Rob, we are removing him from the weekend lineup in his best interest and the interest of the match,” — KNVB spokesperson
What’s Next
FIFA is expected to confirm French VAR official Willy Delajod as Dieperink’s replacement for the World Cup, while the KNVB will reassess Dieperink’s domestic assignments after the weekend.
