**From Red Cards to Parcels: David Coote’s Post-Refereeing Journey Caught on Camera**
David Coote, once a familiar figure officiating at the highest levels of English football, has undergone a significant transformation in the past six months. The 42-year-old former Premier League referee, who was dismissed by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in December, has been spotted working as a courier for the delivery company Evri in his Nottinghamshire neighbourhood.
Coote’s abrupt departure from top-level refereeing followed a turbulent period personally and professionally. His dismissal came after a video surfaced online in which he criticised Liverpool Football Club and its manager, Jurgen Klopp. In the wake of this, UEFA handed him a 16-month suspension from all officiating duties, a ban that will keep him off the pitch until at least June 2026.
The controversy did not end there. Further reports emerged of a separate incident involving Coote, with social media footage allegedly showing him snorting a white powder during the 2024 European Championships. While the details of this episode remain unconfirmed, its circulation only added to the scrutiny surrounding his conduct.
Since being sidelined from the sport, Coote has sought to rebuild his life and maintain a sense of purpose outside professional football. Locals in Newark were recently startled to spot the ex-referee at their doorstep, delivering parcels and packages. Caught on a household Ring doorbell camera, Coote reportedly explained to residents that, although the courier role was helping him pass the time and regain a sense of responsibility, he did not consider it a permanent change in career direction.
“I want to get on with my life,” Coote told The Sun. “I’m trying to move forwards and regain a sense of responsibility and purpose. The job is keeping me busy and occupied—it’s not a new long-term career.” His comments reflect a man determined to move beyond recent setbacks, seeking both normalcy and fulfilment in a more everyday setting.
During his tenure as a top-tier referee, Coote built an extensive résumé, taking charge of 112 Premier League matches and 143 Championship fixtures. He was also trusted with significant appointments such as the 2023 Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium—an indicator of the stature he once held within the refereeing community.
In addition to his new day job, Coote has channelled his energies into charitable efforts and personal improvement. He recently participated in the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, using the opportunity to raise money and awareness for his uncle Mick, who lives with Motor Neurone Disease. This initiative demonstrates Coote’s intent to contribute positively even during challenging times.
Reflecting on the difficulties he has faced, Coote admitted, “This has been one of the most difficult periods of my life. I take full responsibility for my actions, which fell way below what was expected of me. I am truly sorry for any offence caused… and for the negative spotlight it put on the game that I love.” He added that his mistakes occurred during “very low times” and did not represent his character or values.
Looking forward, Coote expressed hope that his experiences, both on and off the pitch, might eventually find a place in football once again. “My focus now is on continuing to prioritise my mental health and wellbeing. I hope that my experiences can be used in football at some point in the future,” he said.
He closed by extending heartfelt thanks to family, friends, colleagues, and even supportive strangers, acknowledging the encouragement he has received during this period of upheaval. For now, Coote’s journey away from elite sport remains a striking example of resilience amidst adversity, as he works to rebuild not only his career but also his reputation and sense of self.