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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Giuseppe Muro

David Coote: PGMOL confirm referee sacked with immediate effect after 'serious breach' of contract

David Coote has been sacked by the PGMOL - (Action Images via Reuters)

Referee David Coote has been sacked by the PGMOL following an investigation into his conduct.

Coote was initially suspended by the PGMOL on November 11 after a video emerged that appeared to show him make disparaging remarks about former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp.

Clips appeared to show the 42-year-old calling Klopp “arrogant” and a “German ****”.

On November 13, The Sun published photos it said were taken during Euro 2024 which allegedly showed Coote sniffing white powder.

The FA has also been investigating allegations that Coote discussed giving a yellow card before a game. Coote denies the yellow card claims and has called them “false and defamatory allegations”.

The PGMOL have said Coote’s actions “were found to be in serious breach of the provisions of his employment contract, with his position deemed untenable”.

A PGMOL statement said: “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.”

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