London, August 12, 2025 – The Football Association (FA) has slapped former Premier League referee David Coote with an eight-week suspension over derogatory comments he made about ex-Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp.
The ban follows the emergence of a leaked video from July 2020 in which Coote was heard making offensive remarks about Klopp, including a reference to the German coach’s nationality. The clip surfaced on social media in November 2024, sparking widespread outrage.
The FA classified Coote’s conduct as an “aggravated breach” of Rule E3.2, which covers abusive and discriminatory language. Alongside the ban, the former match official has been ordered to attend a face-to-face educational programme.
This is not the first time Coote has faced disciplinary action. In December 2024, he was sacked by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) after another video appeared to show him using cocaine at Euro 2024. UEFA has also imposed a ban preventing him from officiating in European competitions until June 30, 2026.
In a statement after the ruling, Coote expressed deep remorse, apologising to Klopp, the FA, PGMOL, and the wider football community. “My comments were unacceptable and do not reflect my true feelings. I have always had the utmost professional respect for Mr. Klopp,” he said.
The FA’s decision has reignited discussions about referee conduct both on and off the pitch, with some analysts calling for stricter vetting and disciplinary measures for officials representing the game at the highest level.
