Former Premier League Referee Faces Criminal Charges After Explosive Jurgen Klopp Remarks
Ex-Premier League official David Coote has received official charges from the Football Association regarding remarks he made in a recording about former Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp.
PGMOL terminated Coote's employment in December, approximately one month following the recording's widespread circulation on social platforms. UEFA imposed a ban on him in early 2025 due to conduct-related allegations from Euro 2024 the preceding summer. He continues to be prohibited from overseeing European matches until June 2026 concludes.
The FA has brought charges against Coote under Rule E3 for disparaging remarks directed at Klopp, which also made reference to the German coach's national origin. While the recording surfaced publicly in November 2024, it is thought to have been made during summer 2020.
The accusation states that Coote "conducted himself improperly and/or employed abusive and/or offensive language," violating Rule E3.1. An additional accusation suggests his words represent an "enhanced violation," as outlined in Rule E3.2, because they included references to Klopp's nationality.
Nevertheless, accusations regarding Coote's gambling-related misconduct have not led to formal charges after a comprehensive investigation into claims of yellow card manipulation during a Championship match between Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion in October 2019.
Coote concealed his sexual orientation throughout his officiating career due to concerns about facing homophobic harassment, but revealed it publicly after his PGMOL termination. He had also acknowledged developing substance abuse issues as he looked for ways to "get away."
In a statement to The Sun, he explained: "My sexual orientation isn't the sole factor that brought me to that situation. However, I wouldn't be telling the complete truth if I didn't acknowledge that I'm gay, and that I've faced significant challenges in concealing that fact."
When Coote was released, PGMOL confirmed it continued providing assistance: "David Coote's behavior was determined to seriously violate his employment agreement terms. Continuing to support David Coote remains a priority for us and we stay dedicated to his wellbeing."
Recently this month, Coote appeared in doorbell camera footage while performing delivery work.
"I want to move forward with my life," he responded to The Sun.
"I'm attempting to progress and restore a sense of accountability and meaning. This work keeps me active and engaged, though it's not intended as a permanent career change."