PGMOL takes new allegations against suspended referee Coote very seriously

English football referee PGMOL said on Wednesday it is taking the new allegations against David Coote very seriously and European football’s governing body UEFA said it has suspended the Premier League referee.

The Sun published a video on Wednesday in which it said Coote appeared to be snorting white powder while working as a match official at Euro 2024.

The video has not been verified by Reuters.

“We are aware of the allegations and take them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation,” a PGMOL spokesperson said.

“David’s well-being remains of the utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs during this period.”

Reuters has contacted Coote through the PGMOL for comment.

Coote, 42, was suspended by the PGMOL on Monday pending a full investigation after another video circulated on social media showing the official allegedly abusing Liverpool and former manager Juergen Klopp.

UEFA said earlier this week it had taken action against Coote.

“The UEFA Referees’ Committee immediately suspended David Coote until further notice on November 11 – ahead of the upcoming round of UEFA matches – upon becoming aware of his inappropriate behaviour,” a UEFA spokesperson said.