David Coote charged by FA over foul-mouthed Jürgen Klopp comments

The former Premier League referee David Coote has been charged by the Football Association in regards to comments he made about Jürgen Klopp. Coote was suspended from his role by Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) in November after a video leaked online showing him making abusive comments about Klopp.

The 42-year-old was sacked the following month after a second video, published by the Sun, allegedly showed him sniffing what appeared to be white powder.

“David Coote has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3 in relation to comments that he made about Jürgen Klopp in a video recorded around July 2020 which appeared on social media in November 2024. It’s alleged that the referee acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words contrary to FA Rule E3.1,” read a FA statement. “It’s further alleged that this constitutes an ‘Aggravated Breach’, which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as it included a reference – whether express or implied – to nationality.

Coote has, however, been cleared of any gambling misconduct after claims he discussed showing a yellow card to a player before the match in question. Coote denied the allegations, describing them as “false and defamatory”.

Coote was banned by Uefa in February from officiating in European competition until 30 June 2026. The previous month he said struggles with his sexuality contributed to the “really poor choices” that cost him his job.