Euro 2020 is just around the corner and the 16th edition will see a few firsts which promise to make this a landmark event. Here are 5 of those interesting facts about the tournament which was delayed by a year.
Number of teams - 24
There will be 24 nations at Euro 2020. As the finals are being played across Europe, there is no host nation. The top 2 teams in each group qualified automatically, meaning there were 20 places up for grabs from the 10 groups.
VAR: 1st appearance at Euros
For the first time in history, Video Assistant Referee will used in the UEFA European championship. This technology, criticized and analysed by all football supporters around the world, helps the referee and his fellow match officials in moments of doubt and it is able to correct mistakes that may have been made.
11 nations, 11 hosts
Celebrating the 60th anniversary of the tournament, UEFA planned to organize Euro 2020 at multiple locations. The tournament will be hosted in 11 cities across 11 of Europe’s best-loved stadiums.
The Wembley to host Semis and final
The Wembley Stadium in London will host the semi-final and final for the second time in under 25 years. Interestingly, the matches at Wembley are likely to have full capacity.
Strict Covid-19 Protocols
To reduce the risk of Covid-19 infections, UEFA has implemented some new rules to help protect football fans. Spectators are bound to maintain a distance of 1.5 meters and have to wear a mask all the time. Fans are advised not to shake hands and avoid hugs, high fives.