UEFA Bans Former Premier League Referee David Coote Until 2026

The ban follows Coote's dismissal over offensive comments and drug use, which UEFA ruled brought football into disrepute.

UEFA has banned ex-Premier League referee David Coote from officiating until June 2026 for violating basic rules of decent conduct.
Coote was dismissed by Premier League Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) in December after videos surfaced of him making derogatory comments about Liverpool and snorting white powder.
The incidents, including a video reportedly filmed during Euro 2024, were deemed a serious breach of his employment contract and damaging to UEFA's reputation.
In a January interview, Coote revealed that struggles with his sexuality and self-esteem contributed to his poor decisions and apologized for his actions.
UEFA's disciplinary body concluded that Coote's behavior brought the sport of football and UEFA into disrepute, prompting the multi-year officiating ban.