Former Premier League referee David Coote, rejected by the Professional Game Match Limited (PGMOL) in 2024, publicly went out as a gay and acknowledged the use of cocaine to face personal struggles.
Coote’s arbitration career ended after a “serious violation” of the contract.
A video criticizing Liverpool and director Jürgen Klopp in aggressive terms, along with another video allegedly showing him using a white powder after working during Euro 2024, led to his dismissal.
The video contains a strong language.
Speech The Sun (United Kingdom)Coote shared the challenges of hiding his sexuality in football’s “Macho World”.
He explained: “I felt a deep sense of shame in my teens. I didn’t go out to my parents until I was 21 years old or my friends until I was 25.”
Coote admitted that the pressure, low self -esteem and fear of additional abuse as an openly homosexual referee contributed to his struggles. “I had deeply unpleasant abuse during my career. Adding my sexuality would make it worse. The distinction remains a matter in football and society,” he said.
He also turned to the use of his cocaine, calling for the escape from relentless stress. “It’s not something I based regularly, but it became a way out. It fills me with shame,” Coote admitted.
PGMOL suspends Coote shortly after the appearance of a video criticized by Liverpool, confirming his layoffs last month. Coote chose not to appeal to the decision.
The Football Association began its own research, focusing on Coote’s comments about KLOPP and if they violated the rules of misconduct. UEFA also appointed a ethical researcher to examine the video showing Coote allegedly using cocaine during Euro 2024.
The fans reacted to the news of Coote’s interview with a mixed reception. Many questioned why Coote decided to come out with the statement only after being fired from PGMol.
Some users also thought whether or not Coote used the “homosexual card” to return to the public eye.
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