Fifa suspends World Cup match official over sexual assault arrest

A potential match official for the upcoming World Cup has been suspended by Fifa after being arrested over an alleged sexual assault at a London hotel.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed a man in his 30s was released on bail following the reported incident.

Football’s global governing body stated on Tuesday that it is aware of the serious allegation and has removed the individual from tournament consideration.

“In the meantime, the match official will not be considered for any Fifa competition matches,” a Fifa statement read.

Uefa launches active investigation

The unidentified official was working at a European competition game in Britain when the alleged assault took place.

The European football confederation has also withdrawn the individual from its upcoming fixtures pending police enquiries.

“We are monitoring the situation with great concern and will continue to follow developments closely,” Uefa stated.

Officials confirmed the ongoing situation is currently being treated as an active investigation.

World Cup preparations overshadowed

The 104-game international tournament is scheduled to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico between 11 June and 19 July.

Earlier this month, a preliminary list containing 52 referees, 88 assistant referees and 30 video match officials was published.

England will begin their campaign in North America under manager Thomas Tuchel against Croatia on 17 June.

The Three Lions are scheduled to face Ghana before concluding their group stage fixtures against Panama on 27 June.

Tuchel’s squad are seeking to end a long major trophy drought, having previously fallen at the quarter-final stage against France four years ago.