Cologne-Mainz match off after referee suicide attempt

Cologne’s home game against Mainz has been called off after referee Babak Rafati attempted suicide in his hotel room.

The 41-year-old was due to officiate the Bundesliga game on Saturday, but was found in the morning with his wrists slashed.

Fans and stadium staff were not informed of the news until late, with supporters entering the RheinEnergie Stadion as late as 45 minutes before kick-off.

Cologne’s press spokesperson, Tobias Schmidt, confirmed that the game had been cancelled as a replacement referee could not be found in time.

“The referee didn’t turn up. We were unable to find a replacement at such short notice. We can’t make any further comment,” Schmidt said.

This is not the first time German football has been in the news for tragedy off the pitch.

In November 2009, Hannover goalkeeper Robert Enke took his own life by stepping out in front of a moving train.

Rafati is an experienced official in the Bundesliga, taking charge of nearly 200 league games.