Former Premier League referee David Coote has publicly come out as gay, sharing the emotional journey that led to his decision. Speaking to The Sun, Coote revealed the difficulties he faced while concealing his sexuality, particularly in the “macho world” of professional football. David Coote explained that his struggles with self-identity started during his teenage years when he felt an overwhelming sense of shame. He didn’t come out to his parents until he was 21, and to his friends until he was 25. Despite the challenges he faced, Coote emphasized that his sexuality was just one part of the complex story that led him down a dark path.
David Coote acknowledged that his years of hiding his emotions as a referee were not just detrimental to his career but to his personal well-being. “I hid my sexuality… a good quality as a referee but a terrible quality as a human being,” he admitted. This internalized struggle had a profound impact on his life, contributing to behaviors that ultimately led to his downfall. He explained that although his sexuality was a significant factor in his mental health challenges, it was not the only reason he struggled during his career.
Drugs as an Escape: Coote Opens Up About His Cocaine Use
In the interview, Coote also bravely addressed his past drug use, admitting that cocaine became an “escape route” from the pressures of his career. While he clarified that he wasn’t dependent on the drug on a daily basis, Coote revealed that he used it during difficult moments when the stresses of his job became too overwhelming. “It fills me with a huge sense of shame to say that I took that route,” Coote confessed. He explained that his profession’s relentless schedule provided little opportunity to decompress, which led him to turn to drugs as a temporary relief.
Coote went on to explain that his use of cocaine was not a constant but rather a means of coping during particularly tough periods. “I don’t recognise myself in the cocaine video,” Coote said, referring to the infamous footage of him sniffing a white powder, which surfaced publicly. He described how the video was taken during the summer’s European Championship when he was struggling to manage the intense pressures of his job. Looking back, he acknowledged that using drugs as a way to escape only compounded his difficulties.
The Video Scandal and Consequences for David Coote’s Career
David Coote’s career as a Premier League referee came to a swift and ignominious end after videos emerged showing him in compromising situations. The first video, which was made public in December 2024, depicted Coote insulting former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. Shortly after, another video surfaced, showing Coote allegedly using cocaine, taken during the summer’s European Championship. The release of these videos sparked an immediate investigation by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), the organization responsible for overseeing referees in the Premier League.
PGMOL concluded that Coote’s actions, including his drug use and derogatory comments about Klopp, rendered his position as a referee “untenable.” In response, the organization terminated Coote’s contract, ending his career as a top-tier official. A PGMOL statement cited the serious breach of his employment contract and expressed their commitment to supporting Coote in the aftermath of his dismissal. Despite the termination, the organization reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to Coote’s welfare, underscoring the importance of mental health support.
PGMOL’s Support and Commitment to David Coote’s Well-being
Despite the scandal that ended Coote’s career, PGMOL pledged to provide support for the former referee following his dismissal. In their official statement, the organization acknowledged that David Coote’s actions violated the provisions of his contract, but emphasized their responsibility to support him in the wake of his career-ending mistakes. “Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us,” PGMOL said, adding that they remained “committed to his welfare.” This commitment suggests a recognition of the challenges Coote has faced, both professionally and personally, and the organization’s desire to help him navigate the difficult road ahead.
As David Coote moves forward, his candid revelation about his sexuality and his struggles with addiction offers a powerful message about the importance of authenticity and seeking help. While his career as a referee may be over, his willingness to open up about his past may provide a platform for personal growth and healing.
