UEFA Slaps Two-Year Ban on Ex-Referee David Coote After Liverpool Scandal

UEFA has officially banned former Premier League referee David Coote from officiating in any capacity until June 2026.

The 42-year-old was dismissed by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in December after a video surfaced of him making derogatory remarks about Liverpool and former manager Jürgen Klopp. Another clip later emerged showing Coote allegedly snorting a white substance, reportedly during Euro 2024.

PGMOL deemed his actions a serious breach of contract, stating that his conduct made his position “untenable.”

Following an internal review, UEFA’s control, ethics, and disciplinary body ruled that Coote’s behavior violated basic standards of conduct and brought football into disrepute.

In a January interview, Coote revealed he is gay and admitted that the pressure of hiding his sexuality contributed to his poor decisions. He expressed remorse, saying, “I am truly sorry for any offense caused by my actions.”