UEFA has opened an investigation into the conduct of referee David Coote after The Sun published a video that allegedly showed him snorting a white powder.
The Sun claimed the video was taken during Euro 2024 at a UEFA-appointed hotel the day before he worked as a support to the VAR for the Portugal versus France quarterfinal.
A UEFA statement read: “A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to evaluate a potential violation of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations by the referee, Mr. David Coote. Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course.”
Yesterday’s claims relating to Coote’s conduct came two days after he was stood down by referring body the PGMOL after another video emerged on X that appeared to show the official making disparaging remarks about Liverpool and their former boss Jurgen Klopp.
On Monday, UEFA stood Coote down from this week’s Nations League fixtures.
Following the publishing of the second video, the PGMOL released another statement in which they committed to providing support for Coote.
It read: “We aware of the allegations and are taking them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation. David’s welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period. We are not in a position to comment further at this stage.”