Suspended Premier League Referee David Coote Faces New Allegations Over Viral Cocaine Video

Premier League referee David Coote faces mounting scrutiny after being suspended for allegedly making derogatory remarks about former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. The FA and PGMOL are now investigating whether Coote’s comment regarding Klopp’s nationality breached misconduct rules, further complicating the situation for the 42-year-old referee.

Adding to the controversy, *The Sun* has released a video showing a man, reportedly Coote, using a dollar bill to snort a line of white powder, believed to be cocaine. According to the report, this incident took place during Euro 2024, while Coote was on duty. The video, allegedly filmed by Coote himself on July 6, was reportedly sent to a friend a day after he worked as a VAR official for the quarterfinal between Spain and Germany.

A PGMOL spokesperson stated that they are aware of the allegations, which they are treating with utmost seriousness. They confirmed that Coote remains suspended as the investigation proceeds, emphasizing their commitment to supporting Coote’s well-being during this challenging period.

UEFA also issued a statement, confirming Coote’s suspension effective November 11, in light of his alleged inappropriate behavior, and that he would not officiate any upcoming UEFA matches.

Coote has had a contentious history with Liverpool, having recently officiated their 2-0 win over Aston Villa. He allegedly directed offensive language toward Klopp, who departed Liverpool at the end of last season. The animosity dates back to a July 2020 match between Liverpool and Burnley, when Klopp criticized Coote’s officiating, feeling that Burnley’s aggressive play was unfairly tolerated in a game that ended 1-1.

Klopp also publicly expressed disappointment in Coote’s VAR decisions last season, particularly during a game against Arsenal, where he felt Coote should have advised an on-field review after Martin Odegaard appeared to handle the ball.