UEFA has implemented a new protocol for player-referee interaction during Euro 2024, stating that only team captains will be permitted to communicate with match officials regarding decisions made during games. Players who contravene this rule risk receiving a yellow card, as announced by UEFA's managing director of refereeing, Roberto Rosetti.
The initiative aims to prevent instances of multiple players surrounding referees, which UEFA considers detrimental to football's image. Rosetti emphasized UEFA's desire for referees to provide more explanations for their decisions to all participating teams.
Euro 2024, set to commence with Germany facing Scotland on June 14th, will enforce this protocol throughout the tournament. UEFA clarified that any player disregarding their captain's role or displaying disrespect toward the referee will face disciplinary action.
In cases where the team captain is a goalkeeper, UEFA mandates the nomination of an outfield player capable of fulfilling the communication role should an incident occur in the opposing half. This protocol aligns with recent trials conducted by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), focusing on enhancing the efficiency and respectfulness of player-referee interactions.
