From Red Cards to Delivery Man: Disgraced referee David Coote bags new job in shocking career change

David Coote, the once-prominent Premier League referee, has officially traded in his whistle for a courier van.

The 42-year-old, who officiated over 100 matches in England’s top flight, is now delivering packages for Evri following a dramatic fall from grace.

Unable to return to the pitch anytime soon, Coote has taken up work as a delivery driver for a courier firm near his home in Newark, Nottinghamshire, as reported by The Mirror.

One couple even spotted him at their front door via their Ring doorbell camera as he dropped off a package.

Speaking to The Sun, Coote broke his silence about the transition from Premier League official to parcel handler: “I want to get on with my life,” he said.

“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.”

Coote was sacked by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in December 2024 after explosive footage surfaced online showing him slamming Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp in a rant that stunned football fans and insiders alike.

The scandal didn’t end there.

A second video allegedly showed the referee snorting white powder during the 2024 European Championships, where he had been working.

In response, UEFA handed Coote a 16-month suspension from officiating, barring him from any role in football until at least June 2026.

Coote, who once officiated high-profile clashes such as the 2023 Carabao Cup Final between Manchester United and Newcastle, has opened up about the toll his public fall took on him.

“This has been one of the most difficult periods of my life,” he admitted earlier this year. “I take full responsibility for my actions, which fell way below what was expected of me. I am truly sorry for any offence caused by my actions and for the negative spotlight it put on the game that I love.”

Whether Coote ever returns to the footballing world remains to be seen — but for now, he’s trying to rebuild his life.