Shamed referee David Coote starts surprising new job after Premier League axe

Daily Mirror

2 days ago

David Coote was sacked by PGMOL in December before being banned by UEFA from officiating after multiple controversial videos emerged - and now he has found a new job
Former Premier League referee David Coote has been spotted delivering packages for Evri after being sacked in December by the PGMOL. The 42-year-old was punished after a video of him slamming Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp surfaced on social media.
The official was then handed a 16-month UEFA ban from officiating that will come to an end in June 2026. A further video of the official allegedly snorting white powder was also shared - with the incident alleged to have taken place during the 2024 European Championships, where he was working.
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And with Coote unable to referee at the moment, he has taken up work as a courier near his Newark home. And one couple were left surprised to see the 42-year-old at their door via their Ring doorbell to drop off a parcel.
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He works for the courier firm near his home in Newark, Nottinghamshire and is looking to find purpose in his life once again. "I want to get on with my life," he said, per the Sun.
"I'm trying to move forwards and regain a sense of responsibility and purpose. The job is keeping me busy and occupied, it's not a new long-term career.'
Coote oversaw 112 Premier League games and 143 games in the Championship during his career in England. The official also oversaw proceedings between Manchester United and Newcastle at Wembley for the Carabao Cup final in 2023.
But he faces at least another year out of the game following UEFA's decision in February. "This has been one of the most difficult periods of my life," he said earlier this year.
"I take full responsibility for my actions, which fell way below what was expected of me. I am truly sorry for any offence caused by my actions and for the negative spotlight it put on the game that I love.
"I hope people will understand that they were private moments taken during very low times in my life. They do not reflect who I am today or what I think.
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"My focus now is on continuing to prioritise my mental health and wellbeing. I hope that my experiences, both on and off the field, can be utilised in football at some point in the future.
"Finally, I want to thank everyone who has supported me recently, in particular my family, friends, former colleagues, PGMOL and Howard Webb, and countless people across football.
"Special thanks also to the many strangers who have reached out with words of encouragement and support, I have appreciated it more than I can properly express."
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