New video allegedly shows referee David Coote snorting white powder

The organization that oversees referees in the Premier League has acknowledged that it is aware of a video that reportedly depicts David Coote inhaling a white powder.

The footage came out following inquiries by Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) and the Football Association into Coote due to comments he made regarding Jürgen Klopp in a video that was released online this week.

On Wednesday night, The Sun released a video claiming to show Coote inhaling a white substance during the European Championship held this summer in Germany, where he was serving as an official.

PGMOL stated that it is “aware of the claims” and is “approaching them with utmost seriousness” regarding the recent issue involving a Premier League referee. The Guardian hasn't been able to independently confirm the video, which is currently under investigation by PGMOL.

A representative from PGMOL informed the Sun: “David Coote is still on suspension while we conduct a thorough investigation. His well-being is our top priority, and we are dedicated to offering him the support he requires during this time. At this point, we can't provide any additional comments.”

The Sun reported that the video was recorded on July 6, just one day after the Euro 2024 quarter-final match between Spain and the host country, Germany, where Coote served as an assistant VAR official.

Coote was investigated by PGMOL after videos emerged of the 42-year-old referring to the former Liverpool manager as “arrogant” and using offensive language towards him.

He was temporarily removed from his position by the professional organization while a thorough investigation is conducted. The Football Association later announced that it too was looking into the situation. Additionally, Uefa placed Coote on suspension "until further notice" after the initial video was released.

The FA has the authority to look into comments made in private settings, and it's believed that a significant focus of their investigation will be on whether the comments regarding Klopp's nationality represent a serious violation of their misconduct regulations.

Howard Webb, the head of refereeing at PGMOL, stated on Tuesday that the organization view the situation with utmost seriousness.