Europe's players told not to intervene if protesters disrupt Ryder Cup

Europe's players have been told not to intervene if protesters disrupt this week's Ryder Cup in Rome.

Environmental group Just Stop Oil have targeted a number of high-profile sporting events this summer, including the second Ashes Test at Lord's where England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow physically manhandled one pitch invader to the boundary.

Four people were also arrested after disrupting play on the second day of the Open Championship at Royal Liverpool, with American player Billy Horschel helping to remove one who threw powdered orange paint on the 17th green.

Asked about the possibility of a similar protest at Marco Simone, Europe captain Luke Donald said: "I have no idea how likely it is but there's a plan in place for everything.

"The guys will be told not to interact, let security deal with that and then we'll carry on."