Former Premier League referee David Coote has been charged by the Football Association with two breaches of conduct relating to a video from July 2020 in which he made offensive remarks about then-Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.
The charges include improper conduct and an aggravated breach of FA rules, with the latter relating to references to nationality in his comments about the German coach.
The video, which surfaced on social media in November 2024, has already resulted in significant consequences for the 42-year-old official.
Coote received a 16-month ban from UEFA for both this incident and a separate video showing him appearing to use cocaine.
The video of David Coote went viral in 2024
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In the viral footage, Coote made highly offensive remarks about Liverpool and their former manager. He said: "Liverpool were s**t. Klopp is an absolute c**t."
The referee went on to describe an incident during a match between Liverpool and Burnley in lockdown, stating that Klopp "accused me of lying and then had a right f*****g pop at me."
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He added: "I have no interest in speaking to someone who is f*****g arrogant. So I do my best not to speak to him."
Most controversially, Coote made reference to Klopp's nationality, saying: "You can see me there with a 'mask' on. But, my god, German c**t, f**k me."
The FA released an official statement detailing the charges against Coote. It read: "David Coote has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3 in relation to comments that he made about Jurgen Klopp in a video recorded around July 2020 which appeared on social media in November 2024."
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His attacks were all aimed at then Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp
PA
The statement continued: "It's alleged that the referee acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words contrary to FA Rules E3.1."
The FA confirmed the aggravated nature of the breach, stating: "It's further alleged that this constitutes an 'Aggravated Breach', which is defined in FA Rule E3.2m as it included a reference whether expressed or implied to nationality."
The governing body also clarified: "No charges have been issued in relation to allegations of gambling misconduct against David Coote, which were also fully investigated."
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Following his fall from grace, Coote has taken employment as a delivery driver for Evri. A couple were surprised to discover the disgraced referee at their door when checking their Ring doorbell footage.
Speaking about his new role, Coote said: "I want to get on with my life. I'm trying to move forwards and regain a sense of responsibility and purpose."
David Coote has been seen as a delivery driver while he serves his ban
The Sun
He acknowledged the temporary nature of his current employment, adding: "The job is keeping me busy and occupied, it's not a new long-term career."
The former official's dramatic career change comes as he attempts to rebuild his life whilst serving his UEFA ban.
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