UEFA going down rugby route with referees at Euro 2024

Referees at Euro 2024 will explain key decisions to team captains – with other players told to keep their distance or be shown yellow cards.

UEFA is determined to create a respectful environment where key calls are communicated on the field, including those following VAR advice or a monitor check.

However, it wants to avoid any unsavoury instances of referees being mobbed.

"Explaining a decision with up to 22 players mobbing you is impossible for a referee," UEFA managing director of refereeing Roberto Rosetti said.

"It can lead to a breakdown in communication, with the beautiful game turning very ugly very quickly, which, everyone agrees, is bad for the image of football.

"Some decisions will, of course, always be debated. However, in a bid to improve the status quo we at UEFA want referees to explain more of their decisions to all teams competing at the upcoming tournament.

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"How will we do this? The idea is simple. We ask that all teams ensure their captain is the only player who speaks to the referee. We ask the captains to ensure their team-mates do not encroach upon and surround the referee, allowing direct conversations to take place in order that the decision be relayed in a timely and respectful manner.

"Importantly, we want only the captain from the team who wishes to discuss a decision to be able to approach the referee. It is the responsibility of the captain to ensure his team-mates respect the referee, keep their distance and do not surround him."

Rosetti said any other