They introduced the rule change at Euro 2024 to stop players surrounding a referee.

UEFA have confirmed that a new rule will be implemented across all UEFA competitions following a successful trial at Euro 2024.

Ahead of this summer’s tournament in Germany, UEFA introduced a rule change designed to stop players surrounding a referee.

In short, a captain is the only player allowed to discuss a decision made by the official and if another player does approach the referee to dispute his call, then they will be booked.

 

“We ask the captains to ensure their teammates 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,” UEFA said.

“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 teammates respect the referee, keep their distance and do not surround him.”

UEFA add: “Any teammate ignoring his captain’s role and/or who approaches the referee showing any sign of disrespect or dissent will be shown a yellow card.

 

“Evidently, if the captain is a goalkeeper, there will need to be an outfield player nominated who can fulfil this role should an incident occur at the opposite end of the pitch.”

After a successful trial at Euro 2024 this summer, UEFA have decided to implement the rule across all of their competitions going forward.

They confirmed the news in a statement.

“UEFA EURO 2024 has seen a new policy introduced to shape the relationships between referees and players on the field, enhance communication around referees’ decisions and encourage mutual trust,” the

 

“The success of this new approach at UEFA EURO 2024, understood by the actors of the game and welcomed by the public opinion as unquestionable progress for the image of football, boosts our confidence that this is the way forward.

“Fair play and respect are values that football, the most popular game in the world, must convey to our societies.”

“Starting with the new season of UEFA club competitions ready to kick off next week, this approach will therefore be extended to all matches in UEFA competitions.

“Referees have now an open line of dialogue with the teams to explain key decisions, including those involving VAR. These information and explanations are provided only to the team captains, who are the only players entitled to speak to the referee and request clarifications in a respectful manner.

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“Captains must also take responsibility for their team-mates, asking them to respect the referee, keep their distance and not surround the match officials.

“Where the captain is the goalkeeper, therefore not close to the action in the majority of cases, the teams are requested to nominate a single outfield player authorised to speak with the referees, to receive their explanations. Players disregarding these instructions and approaching the referees to show dissent or to act disrespectfully are cautioned.”

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