David Coote, Former Premier League Referee, Faces FA Charges
Former Premier League referee David Coote is at the center of controversy after being charged by the Football Association (FA) due to comments about then-Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp in July 2020.
Coote was fired by PGMOL in November 2024, after an investigation into a video that was published on an anonymous account on X, where he criticized Klopp. More accusations were added in the following days.
It is alleged that the referee acted improperly and/or used abusive and/or insulting words, contrary to FA Rule E3.1.
The FA added that this conduct constitutes an “Aggravated Breach”, according to Rule E3.2, by including an express or implied reference to nationality.In the video, when asked about Liverpool’s performance, Coote responded with inappropriate words. Then, when questioned about Klopp, he continued with insults.
When asked why he held that opinion, Coote added details about an incident in a match against Burnley, accusing Klopp of accusing him of lying.
Since Coote is no longer an active official, the scope of the punishment is limited. The FA can impose a fine, which would only be effective if he returns to football. Any suspension would also apply only if he returns to activity, with no immediate effect.
The FA also reported that it found no evidence of misconduct related to betting, as had been speculated.
Coote was also suspended by UEFA until June 30, 2026, following an investigation into another video in which he apparently consumed a substance in a hotel during his participation in Euro 2024 as VAR. He was sanctioned for violating the “basic rules of decent conduct” and for discrediting football and UEFA.
