The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has appointed an ethics and disciplinary inspector to look into Premier League referee David Coote following the emergence of a video that allegedly shows him snorting a white powder during Euro 2024.

The investigation comes as the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in England stated it is taking new allegations against Coote “very seriously.”

The 42-year-old referee was suspended by the PGMOL on Monday after additional footage surfaced on social media, appearing to show him making derogatory comments about former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.

On Wednesday, the Sun published a video that reportedly shows Coote snorting a white powder during Euro 2024 in Germany, where he was officiating matches.

In light of such developments, UEFA initiated a formal investigation into his behaviour.

“A UEFA ethics and disciplinary inspector has been appointed to assess a potential breach of the UEFA disciplinary regulations by referee Mr. David Coote,” a UEFA statement said.

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The governing body added that further updates on the situation would be provided as the investigation progresses.

According to a PGMOL spokesman, the organisation is aware of a second video involving the said referee.

“We are taking these allegations very seriously,” the spokesman stated, “David Coote remains suspended while a full investigation is conducted.”

It added that the refree’s well-being is a top priority, assuring that they are committed to providing him with the necessary support during this challenging time.