The 2026 World Cup is set to be a landmark event, but it will proceed without Dutch referee Rob Dieperink, who has been removed from the official list of match officials by FIFA. This decision, confirmed to dpa on Saturday, comes even after a criminal investigation into allegations of sexual coercion against the 38-year-old was dropped due to insufficient evidence.

Dieperink was originally slated to serve as a video assistant referee (VAR) during the tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico starting next month. His removal underscores FIFA's strict stance on off-field conduct, even when legal proceedings have concluded.

According to media reports, the Dutch official was accused of sexually coercing a minor while in London, leading to his arrest. However, a subsequent police investigation was halted after authorities found no evidence to support the claims. Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf quoted Dieperink as maintaining his innocence throughout the ordeal.

"It makes me very sad that I was falsely accused," Dieperink stated, expressing regret that FIFA chose not to include him in the World Cup roster. For a referee of his caliber—having worked in top-tier European competitions—missing out on the sport's biggest stage is a significant blow, especially after being cleared legally.

This development adds another layer of drama to the pre-tournament preparations, as teams and officials alike finalize their plans for what promises to be a thrilling World Cup. For fans, it's a reminder that the path to glory is often paved with unexpected twists, both on and off the pitch.