David Coote, a former Premier League referee, was dismissed by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in December following a serious breach of his employment contract. The organization deemed his position untenable after a series of controversies, including an unverified video that surfaced on social media. The video, posted on November 11, allegedly showed Coote making derogatory comments about Liverpool and its manager, Jurgen Klopp. This incident led to his suspension and an internal investigation by PGMOL.
Coote's dismissal is intricately linked to personal challenges he faced during his career. He recently admitted to turning to drugs due to the fear associated with coming out as gay in the world of professional football refereeing. Coote revealed that he had struggled with his sexuality for years, hiding it from his family and friends until he was well into adulthood.
"I hid my emotions as a young ref and I hid my sexuality as well – a good quality as a referee but a terrible quality as a human being." – David Coote
The controversy escalated when a second video emerged in November, purportedly showing Coote allegedly snorting a white powder during Euro 2024. PGMOL became aware of this new video on November 14, prompting further scrutiny of Coote's conduct. Additionally, the Football Association (FA) began investigating allegations that Coote had discussed issuing a yellow card before a game, specifically against Leeds United's match with West Bromwich Albion in October 2019. Coote has refuted these allegations.
"I've had issues around my self-esteem – and that relates to my sexuality. I'm gay and I've struggled with feeling proud of being 'me' over a long period of time." – David Coote
UEFA has also taken notice of the situation, appointing an ethics investigator to delve deeper into the allegations surrounding Coote's behavior. Despite the accusations and mounting evidence, Coote firmly denies making derogatory comments or pre-discussing match decisions. His dismissal reflects not only the consequences of his actions but also sheds light on the personal battles he has faced.
Throughout his teenage years, Coote carried a deep sense of shame regarding his sexuality, which continued to affect his personal and professional life.
"I felt a deep sense of shame during my teenage years in particular." – David Coote
Coote did not open up about his sexuality to his parents until he was 21 and only came out to his friends at 25. This prolonged period of secrecy took a toll on his mental health and self-esteem, leading him down a path of substance abuse as a coping mechanism.
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