Former Premier League referee, David Coote has taken an unexpected career turn, now working as a delivery driver for courier company Evri just months after being dismissed from top-flight officiating.
The 42-year-old, who once presided over major fixtures including the 2023 Carabao Cup final at Wembley, was let go by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in December 2024.
His dismissal followed a viral video in which Coote was seen criticising Liverpool FC and manager Jürgen Klopp.
Shortly after, he was hit with a 16-month suspension from UEFA, ruling him out of all European competitions until June 2026.
Adding to the controversy, another video allegedly showing Coote snorting a white powder surfaced online, with some reports suggesting the incident occurred during the 2024 European Championships.
Though the full circumstances remain unconfirmed, UEFA’s disciplinary response has left Coote sidelined from professional refereeing duties.
Now living in Newark, Nottinghamshire, Coote has taken up work with Evri to, in his words, “regain a sense of responsibility and purpose.”
He was recently recognised by a couple who spotted him delivering a package via their Ring doorbell camera, an encounter that has since drawn widespread attention.
“I want to get on with my life,” Coote told 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, who officiated 112 Premier League and 143 Championship matches during his officiating career, admitted that the past few months have been some of the most difficult of his life.
“I take full responsibility for my actions, which fell way below what was expected of me,” he said. “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.”
Amidst the turbulence, Coote has also found strength in charitable work.
He recently completed the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon in honour of his uncle Mick, who is living with Motor Neurone Disease, raising funds and awareness for the condition.
“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.”
Despite the dramatic shift in career, Coote expressed gratitude to those who have supported him through his personal challenges.
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