UEFA is gearing up for a historic moment at Euro 2024 with plans to display VAR decisions on stadium screens in Germany.
The announcement follows last month’s decision to ensure refereeing calls are explained to international captains, who are to be the only players allowed to communicate with officials.
Players who bypass their captain and show disrespect or dissent towards referees will be penalized with a yellow card.
Additionally, UEFA has confirmed that referees will explain their decisions to the crowd through stadium screens during the tournament in June and July.
UEFA’s managing director for refereeing, Roberto Rosetti, highlighted this new initiative, stating, “This is something new. I think it’s very, very, very interesting.”
Rosetti explained that after the VAR opinion is given, a technical explanation will be provided to the public in real time.
For example, if a referee awards a penalty for handball, the explanation might read, “Germany number nine touched the ball with his left arm in an unnatural position above the shoulder, making his body bigger.”
Rosetti emphasized that this initiative is aimed at enhancing the image of the game and educating the next generation, not just for the referees.
Rosetti has also been proactive in communicating these new protocols to teams and players, stressing the importance of strict disciplinary measures for dangerous tackles.
“One of the most important priorities in refereeing guidelines is to protect the players,” he noted.
“To protect the image of the game, but particularly the safety of the main actors of the games.”
He added that referees are being instructed to adopt a zero-tolerance policy for serious fouls, as such actions are unacceptable.
