Ex-Premier League Referee Now Delivery Guy After UEFA Ban

Former Premier League referee David Coote has taken up a new job delivering parcels after being banned from officiating football matches.

The 42-year-old was dismissed by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in December following controversy over videos that surfaced online.

Coote faced a 16-month ban from UEFA, which will last until June 2026, after a video showed him criticising Liverpool and their manager Jurgen Klopp. Another video allegedly showed him snorting a white substance during the 2024 European Championships, where he was working as a referee. These incidents led to disciplinary action and his suspension from football.

Since the ban, Coote has started working as a courier near his home in Newark, Nottinghamshire. A couple was surprised to see him delivering a parcel at their door, captured on their Ring doorbell camera. He is now employed by a local delivery company and is trying to find purpose outside of football.

Coote had a respected career before the ban, officiating 112 Premier League matches and 143 Championship games. He also refereed the 2023 Carabao Cup final at Wembley between Manchester United and Newcastle.

Speaking about his situation, Coote admitted it has been a very difficult time for him. “I take full responsibility for my actions, which fell way below what was expected of me,” he said. He expressed regret for the negative attention his actions brought to the sport he loves.

He added that the videos showed private moments during tough times and do not represent who he is now. Coote said his focus is on improving his mental health and hopes to return to football in some capacity in the future.

He thanked his family, friends, former colleagues, the PGMOL, and football fans for their support during this challenging period.