Ex-Premier League Referee David Coote Spotted Delivering Parcels for Evri After Misconduct Sacking, Seeks to Rebuild Life

 

David Coote, a former Premier League referee, has drawn significant attention in the United Kingdom after being spotted working as a delivery driver for the courier company Evri, months following his dismissal from professional football for misconduct. Speaking to The Sun, Coote, now residing in Newark, shared that he is “just trying to make an honest living” amid the public spotlight. His unexpected career shift has sparked a range of reactions online, with some expressing sympathy for his efforts to move forward, while others continue to reference the controversies that led to his exit from refereeing.

In 2024, Coote was sacked after videos emerged showing him making derogatory remarks about former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp and appearing to snort a white powder, allegedly cocaine, during Euro 2024. The scandal prompted UEFA to impose a 16-month ban on him. In January 2025, Coote publicly came out as gay, revealing that years of concealing his identity had contributed to significant personal stress. Since then, he has embraced a new chapter, including completing a marathon and expressing optimism about rebuilding his life. Coote also voiced a desire to eventually return to football in a positive capacity, though for now, his focus remains on his delivery job with Evri and navigating the public’s mixed sentiments about his journey.

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