Coote Apologizes for Actions, Citing Pressure and Fear of Abuse

Former Premier League Referee David Coote Apologizes for Actions Leading to Sacking

David Coote, a former Premier League referee, has apologized for the actions that led to his dismissal by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in November 2023. He attributed his behavior to the immense pressure of the job and the fear of abuse due to his sexuality.

Coote was fired after a video surfaced on social media showing him allegedly abusing Liverpool and their former manager, Jürgen Klopp. The 42-year-old, who officiated over 100 top-flight games, admitted to using drugs and not being sober at the time of the video, stating that his fear of coming out as gay played a significant role in his actions.

"I want to apologize to anybody who I've offended by my actions... you can tell by the video I wasn't sober," Coote said in an interview with The Sun. "I have received deeply unpleasant abuse during my career as a ref and to add my sexuality to that would have been really difficult."

Coote acknowledged that his sexuality wasn't the sole reason for his behavior, but emphasized the struggles he faced in hiding it. He expressed regret for suppressing his emotions and sexuality, recognizing it as a detrimental coping mechanism.

The controversy escalated further when another video emerged allegedly showing Coote snorting white powder while officiating at Euro 2024, prompting a UEFA investigation. Coote attributed his actions to the immense pressure he faced due to his workload and personal struggles, including the loss of his mother and his uncle's diagnosis with motor neurone disease.

Coote expressed deep remorse for his actions, stating that he has overcome his drug habit through therapy but still feels shame. He encourages others facing similar challenges to seek help and avoid bottling up their emotions.