Successful new line of communication between referees and players to be implemented across all UEFA competitions

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 success of this new approach at UEFA EURO 2024, understood by the actors of the game and welcomed by 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 sport in the world, must convey to society at large.

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

Team captains only can speak to the refereeAFP via Getty Images

Referees now have an open line of dialogue with the teams to explain key decisions, including those involving VAR. This information and accompanying 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.

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.