UMVA has learned that Dutch referee Rob Dieperink, once slated to serve as a VAR for this summer’s World Cup, was arrested in London last month but the case has now been dropped.
The drama erupted after a European club clash, when authorities entered his hotel room on suspicion of a sexual assault involving a teenage boy. Police acted swiftly, bringing him in for questioning.
Yet the investigation uncovered no evidence, and within a fortnight no charges were filed. The matter was officially closed, leaving the accusation unsubstantiated.
Despite the cleared record, FIFA has already removed Dieperink from the roster of VAR officials for the tournament, a move that has left the referee stunned and deeply disappointed.
In a candid interview, Dieperink said he had “fully cooperated” with police, offered transparency to FIFA, UEFA and the Dutch FA, and was grateful for the support he received.
The Dutch football association reiterated that a referee must embody impeccable character while also affirming that wrongful accusations deserve careful handling. They noted Dieperink’s cooperation and stated there was no reason to exclude him from domestic matches.
Nevertheless, the association chose to replace him in a crucial Eredivisie fixture this Sunday to safeguard the game’s integrity and protect the referee’s reputation.
The police statement confirmed the arrest and bail, noting that the alleged victim continues to receive specialist support. No further updates have emerged since.
This saga highlights how swiftly public perception can clash with legal outcomes in sports, and the football world watches closely as the World Cup approaches.
