From Whistles to Wheels: Ex-Referee David Coote Finds New Purpose After Career Fallout

David Coote, once a familiar face in the Premier League’s high-stakes matches, is now making headlines for a very different reason. The 42-year-old former referee has taken up a new role as a delivery driver for courier company Evri, following a turbulent exit from professional officiating.

Coote, who officiated 112 Premier League and 143 Championship games—including the 2023 Carabao Cup final—was dismissed by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in December 2024. His dismissal came shortly after a video surfaced online showing him making disparaging remarks about Liverpool FC and manager Jürgen Klopp.

The controversy didn’t end there. UEFA handed Coote a 16-month suspension from all European competitions, citing further disciplinary issues. Another widely circulated video, allegedly recorded during the 2024 European Championships, appeared to show Coote using a white powder substance. While the full context remains unclear, the footage was enough to extend his absence from football until at least June 2026.

Now residing in Newark, Nottinghamshire, Coote has taken steps to rebuild his life away from the pitch. He currently works part-time for Evri, a decision he describes as both humbling and healing.

I needed something to ground me,” Coote told The Sun. “This job isn’t glamorous, but it’s honest. I’m not looking for sympathy just structure, and a way to contribute.

A recent moment of recognition came when a couple spotted him delivering a parcel via their Ring doorbell camera. The clip quickly made the rounds online, reigniting public curiosity about Coote’s journey.

Reflecting on his fall from grace, Coote doesn’t shy away from accountability.

I made mistakes. I take full responsibility for my actions they were inexcusable and deeply out of character,” he said. “Those were dark moments in my life, and I am truly sorry for the impact they had on others and on the game I care so deeply about.”

Amid the personal and professional upheaval, Coote has channeled his energy into charitable efforts. He recently completed the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, raising funds for Motor Neurone Disease in honour of his uncle Mick, who is living with the condition.

I’ve found strength in giving back,” he said. “Focusing on my mental health and helping others has been crucial in my recovery.

While Coote’s future in top-flight football remains uncertain, he hasn’t ruled out a return to the sport in a different capacity.

If there’s ever an opportunity to use my experience to help young referees or support mental health in sport, I’d embrace it,” he shared. “This isn’t the end of my story—it’s just a new chapter.

Despite the dramatic turn his career has taken, Coote remains hopeful. “I’m grateful to the people who stuck by me,” he said. “Life has a strange way of teaching us what really matters.”