EURO 2024 is set to kick off in Germany, with Scotland facing the hosts in Munich on Friday and England starting their campaign against Serbia on Sunday.
The tournament promises thrilling football over the next month, drawing fans from across the continent. Top referees from around Europe will officiate, aiming to avoid the contentious officiating often seen in the Premier League.
However, there are several new rules in place for the tournament. Long stoppage times, seen in the 2022 World Cup and Premier League, will not be implemented, with stoppage times likely reverting to the usual 3-5 minutes.
VAR will be used for all games, operating from a hub in Leipzig, with fewer assistants to speed up decisions. Big screens in stadiums will show VAR replays and decisions.
Semi-automated offsides will replace line drawing, utilising Connected Ball Technology and specialised cameras to quickly assess offsides.
A new rule will book players who crowd referees, allowing only captains to discuss decisions, except when the captain is a goalkeeper. Teams are also allowed 26-man squads instead of the usual 23.
Lastly, the tournament balls will have microchips to assist referees in detecting handball situations.
Will you be watching?
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