UEFA's Strict Stance Leads to Surge in Yellow Cards at European Championship

UEFA's firm approach to tactical fouls and dissent has led to a significant increase in yellow cards during the European Championship. The changes resulted in 166 yellow cards in the group stage, up from 98 in the previous tournament. UEFA's efforts aim to promote respect and proper conduct on the field.

Referees enforcing stricter rules on tactical fouls have caused a rise in yellow cards at the European Championship, the head of UEFA's match officials disclosed on Friday.

A firm stance on dissent—including booking high-profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo—has increased yellow card counts to 166 during the 36 group-stage matches, compared to 98 at the same stage during the last tournament. Tactical fouls, which disrupt a fast counterattack by committing an offense, have been notably linked to players like former Brazil and Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho.

"It's about yellow cards for stopping a promising attack," said Roberto Rosetti, UEFA's managing director of referees. Highlighting a more than four-fold increase in tactical fouls to 35 during this year's group stage versus eight at Euro 2020, Rosetti emphasized referees' heightened alertness to such infractions. The overall rate of yellow cards now stands at 4.6 per game, compared to 2.7 in the previous tournament.

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