FA Charges David Coote Over X-Rated Rant in Klopp Controversy

Admin
Jun 17
3 min read

In a stunning development that continues to shake the foundations of English football’s officiating integrity, the Football Association (FA) has officially charged former Premier League referee David Coote for an “aggravated breach” of conduct stemming from a vulgar, xenophobic rant targeting Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp.

This comes months after Coote was suspended and later dismissed from the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) following the surfacing of a scandalous video in which he not only snorted a white substance but also referred to Klopp as a “German c***”—a comment that has now drawn the full weight of FA scrutiny.

What Happened?

The charge, issued under FA Rule E3.1, alleges that Coote made improper, abusive, and/or insulting remarks. The use of a nationality-based slur qualifies it as an “aggravated breach”—a more serious offense carrying potentially severe consequences.

Key Allegations:

Offensive remark made in a private setting but later leaked to the public.
Classified as an aggravated breach due to the reference to Klopp's nationality.
Linked to a broader behavioral breakdown that includes alleged drug use and unprofessional conduct.

The FA’s investigation follows a December 2024 scandal where footage of Coote’s outburst and substance use circulated widely on social media, forcing the hand of PGMOL to terminate his officiating role.

A Dramatic Fall From Grace

At just 42, Coote had officiated high-profile matches, including Premier League derbies and European competitions. However, his career unraveled rapidly due to the scandal. UEFA had already banned Coote from officiating until 2026, signaling zero tolerance for misconduct within the broader European football ecosystem.

He has since publicly come out as gay a significant personal revelation he says was followed by emotional distress, which he partly blames for his behavior. Coote is currently working as a delivery driver for courier firm Evri, marking a humbling chapter in his post-refereeing life.

“I made mistakes. But I want to rebuild both my life and my name,” Coote shared in a January 2025 interview.

Bigger Issues at Play: Culture & Accountability in Officiating

The Coote case raises deep-rooted concerns about the mental health, accountability, and transparency of those who serve as the game’s ultimate decision-makers.

Unanswered Questions:

How did someone in such a critical role evade earlier intervention?
Was the officiating community’s lack of support structures a contributing factor?
What safeguards are in place to prevent bias, misconduct, or compromised integrity?

This is not just about one man—it is about the systems and culture that govern officiating in football.

The FA’s Response: Setting a Precedent

With this charge, the FA appears to be drawing a clear line. While the incident was not on the field of play, the association insists that the conduct of officials, both on and off duty, reflects on the integrity of the game.

If found guilty, Coote could face:

A lengthy ban from all football-related activities.
A hefty fine.
A formal blacklisting from ever returning to officiating or football governance roles.

The FA’s firm stance is designed not only to discipline Coote but also to rebuild public trust in football’s officiating standards.

What Happens Next?

Coote has until a specified date to respond to the charge.
An independent regulatory commission will review the case.
The FA will determine sanctions based on precedent and the aggravating nature of the offense.

The football community will watch closelybe cause this case sets a precedent on how misconduct, even off the pitch, is judged in today’s high-stakes sports environment.

Final Thoughts: Lessons in Accountability

David Coote’s fall is more than a personal tragedy it is a cautionary tale for institutions that manage the game. As football seeks to clean its image amidst racism, corruption, and fan violence, it must also scrutinize those entrusted to uphold its laws.

Integrity in sport doesn’t begin and end with players it must extend to referees, administrators, and governing bodies. In this age of hyper-transparency and public accountability, the message is clear: No one is above the badge.

Stay tuned to WorldWire News for in-depth coverage of the case, its implications for officiating, and the broader issues facing football governance in the 21st century.