The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has fired Premier League referee David Coote after an investigation into his behavior.
PGMOL confirmed their decision in a statement released on Monday, with Coote fired with immediate effect.
“Following the conclusion of a thorough investigation into David Coote’s conduct, his employment with PGMOL has been terminated today with immediate effect. David Coote’s actions were found to be in serious breach of the provisions of his employment contract, with his position deemed untenable.
“Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us and we remain committed to his welfare. David Coote has a right to appeal the decision to terminate his employment.”
What happened?
Last month a video was widely circulated on social media showing Coote discussing officiating Liverpool games, as he used several obscenities to attack former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.
Another individual who appeared alongside Coote in the video also made several negative remarks about Liverpool Football Club and the people of Liverpool.
At the time PGMOL released a statement confirming that Coote has been suspended pending an investigation: “David Coote has been suspended with immediate effect pending a full investigation. PGMOL will be making no further comment until that process is complete.”
Who is referee David Coote?
David Coote is a Premier League referee from Nottinghamshire who is 42 years old. He first became a Premier League official in 2018 after spending eight years in the Football League.
Coote refereed the 2023 League Cup final at Wembley, which Manchester United won 2-0 against Newcastle.
He has refereed six Premier League games this season, most recently Liverpool’s 2-0 win against Aston Villa on November 9, 2024.
