England's Proactive Stance Against Racism Ahead of Euro 2024

As England prepares for

2024, the FA has taken extensive measures to address potential off-field issues, particularly racism. The Daily Mail reports that Harry Kane, England's captain, has been given a crucial role in adhering to referee directives if any player faces racial abuse.

UEFA has reiterated its three-step protocol to combat racism during matches, which was presented to all participating nations, including a special briefing for England at St George's Park. The protocol's first step involves the referee stopping the game to make an announcement urging fans to stop racist behavior. If this fails, the match will be suspended for five to ten minutes with a second announcement highlighting the gravity of the situation. Persistent racism will lead to the match being abandoned, with a UEFA delegate assisting in this decision to ensure all measures are considered, including player and spectator security.

England's opening match against Serbia on June 16 has been classified as high-risk due to past incidents involving Serbian fans. To mitigate potential issues, only low-strength beer will be available to fans, following several troubling episodes, including Serbia's partially closed stadium against Bulgaria in November due to racist behavior. Serbian fans have a history of such incidents, including during the last World Cup in Qatar and previous matches against Portugal and FK Rad.

Italian referee Daniele Orsato will oversee the England vs. Serbia match, playing a central role in implementing UEFA's protocol if necessary. The FA's proactive approach includes monitoring the situation closely from the stands and supporting players, with FA chief executive Mark Bullingham announcing funding for police efforts to prosecute those who engage in racist abuse on social media against English players.