David Coote (pictured above), a prominent Premier League referee, finds himself at the centre of a storm as allegations of match manipulation for betting purposes surface. Coote is accused of influencing a Championship match in 2019 to assist a friend in winning a bet. Although he denies any wrongdoing, the investigation has cast a shadow over his career, raising critical questions about integrity in professional football.
Details of alleged match controversies
Coote was recently suspended following a video showing him snorting a white powder during Euro 2024. This incident, coupled with derogatory comments about former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, further tarnished his image. The allegations stem from a 2019 Championship match where Coote issued a yellow card to Leeds United’s Ezgjan Alioski. Reports suggest Coote discussed the game with a friend prior to the match. Allegedly, the friend intended to bet on the game, and their conversation hinted at Coote influencing the outcome.
Before the current investigation, Coote faced scrutiny for controversial decisions and behaviour. His officiating has often divided opinion among fans and analysts, but no allegations had questioned his integrity until now.
After the match, Coote allegedly messaged the friend, asking if they had “backed as discussed,” implying prior coordination. While there’s no concrete evidence of manipulation, the dialogue raises suspicion.
Response from David Coote
David Coote firmly denies the accusations, stating that the conversation was taken out of context and had no bearing on his decisions during the game. He emphasised that his personal issues never affect his professional responsibilities, claiming he has always officiated with integrity and fairness.
In an interview with The Sun, Coote said, “Whatever issues I may have had in my personal life, they have never affected my decision-making on the field. I have always held the integrity of the game in the highest regard, refereeing matches impartially and to the best of my ability.”
Leeds United has acknowledged the allegations but refrained from commenting further, expressing trust in the ongoing investigation.
Leeds issued a statement: “Leeds United are aware of the allegations regarding the conduct of a match official, involving our EFL Championship fixture with West Bromwich Albion in October 2019. We respect and have full confidence in the FA, EFL, and PGMOL regulations and processes. We will be making no further comment at this time.”
The Football Association views the allegations as serious and has promised a thorough investigation to uncover the truth. PGMOL echoed the FA’s sentiments, emphasising the importance of transparency and adherence to their Integrity Code of Conduct.
Regarding the latest allegation, a PGMOL spokesman stated: “The facts need to be established considering these very serious allegations. We adopt a zero-tolerance approach to any breach of our Integrity Code of Conduct, which is signed by all match officials annually.
“The PGMOL Board is committed to taking the appropriate action should any breach of that code be proven. David Coote remains suspended and is subject to an ongoing disciplinary process by PGMOL, separate from the investigation into this matter, which will be conducted independently by the FA. We will be making no further comment at this stage.”
If found guilty, Coote could face severe penalties, including a lifetime ban from officiating. Governing bodies are committed to preserving trust in football through rigorous monitoring and enforcement of integrity standards.
