Referee Dean suspended for role in race syndicate

The referee Mike Dean has been suspended for the rest of the season for "breaching the terms of his employment contract".

The referee Mike Dean has been suspended for the rest of the season for "breaching the terms of his employment contract".

Dean has been removed from duties until 31 May by the Professional Game Match Officials Ltd as a consequence of his involvement in an online racehorse syndicate, Arbitros Racing.

"Referee Mike Dean has been suspended until 31 May by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL)," a statement read, "for breaching the terms of his employment contract, which require match officials to seek permission from PGMOL for any business ventures or the use of their status as a PGMOL official for promotional purposes.

"The suspension, which was originally imposed on 26 February pending enquiries, refers to his involvement in an online race horse syndicate. He has also been required to cease his involvement with this venture and any similar activities."

The investigation into the 36-year-old's involvement with Arbitros - Spanish for referees - appears to have concluded that he abused his profile for financial gain.

He advertised the partnership business in the Racing Post, in which it was stated: "Join Premiership referee, Mike Dean, in this great, new, exciting venture."

The syndicate focuses on the progress of one racehorse, Miss Tickle, and invites potential investors to fund its development with a view to profiting depending on its subsequent performance.