What are the regulations for VAR in Euro 2024? The updated rules for referees and VAR in the upcoming tournament in Germany.

UEFA has unveiled new referee guidelines for Euro 2024 in an effort to reduce serious foul play, dissent, and enhance the fan experience in Germany. The changes also include alterations to the video assistant referee (VAR) system and a limit on added time at the end of each half.

During a media briefing in Munich, UEFA’s managing director of refereeing, Roberto Rosetti, outlined the new guidelines.

One significant change is the clampdown on dissent, with only the captain allowed to approach referees. Any player who ignores this rule and shows dissent towards the referee will be cautioned. This protocol was successfully implemented in the European club finals, resulting in a decrease in yellow cards.

Another notable change is the live broadcast of VAR conversations on big screens in stadiums. This aims to enhance the fan experience by providing real-time explanations for decisions. UEFA experts will prepare technical explanations for specific situations, such as handball penalties, which will be displayed simultaneously on the screens.

Player protection is also a priority, with a zero-tolerance policy for dangerous challenges. Rosetti emphasized the need to protect the image of the game and the safety of the players. Referees have been instructed to be strong in such situations and show zero tolerance.

In terms of time management, UEFA aims to limit the added time at the end of each half to a maximum of 10 minutes. The objective is to ensure around 60 minutes of effective game time.

Euro 2024 will also introduce new technology, including the “snickometer” commonly used in cricket. This technology will provide greater clarity in handball and offside decisions. Match balls will be fitted with motion-sensing microchips called “connected ball” technology, recording every touch on the ball at a rate of 500 times a second.

Semi-automated offside technology will also be utilized, with ten specially designed cameras tracking 29 different body points to make offside decisions faster and more accurate. This technology has been successfully tested in the Premier League, Serie A, and the UEFA Champions League.

Overall, UEFA’s new referee guidelines for Euro 2024 aim to improve the game by reducing serious foul play, limiting dissent, enhancing fan experience, and utilizing advanced technology for more accurate decisions.