No. 190

MAY/JUNE 2020 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE UNION OF EUROPEAN ASSOCIATIONS

2m No.190 2020 • May/June STAY SAFE

EDITORIAL

Aleksander Čeferin UEFA President FOOTBALL WAITS… AND SHOWS ITS BEATING HEART

t is only a matter of weeks since European football was looking forward with great anticipation to an exciting climax to the UEFA and domestic competition seasons, as well as UEFA EURO 2020, a unique Ibridging 12 countries and celebrating the 60th anniversary of the continent’s premium men’s national team competition. Since then, life in and beyond has been turned on its head by the rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus. Football has been brought to a halt at both European and national levels. UEFA has been forced to postpone all its club and national team competitions until further notice, while moving EURO 2020 to the summer of 2021 and UEFA Women’s EURO 2021 to the following year. UEFA reacted swiftly in making these decisions, within a full and frank consultation process not only with its 55 member associations, but also with fellow football stakeholders – clubs, leagues and players’ unions. It was the correct decision at the right time, based on common sense, in compliance with national measures and World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations. The unprecedented circumstances indeed made it impossible for any sport to take place. I have been extremely proud of how UEFA and its stakeholders have acted together in a spirit of full and honest cooperation at this time. This spirit remains truly alive within a situation that is in a state of constant evolution. Specific working groups are meeting regularly, and further decisions are being taken with the consensus of our partners and based on sound expert advice. Most importantly, every step is being taken in the knowledge that the safety and health of everyone in football is of paramount importance. I would also like to thank our colleagues at FIFA for their collaboration and understanding as we negotiate our way through this difficult and demanding period. It is a matter of pride as well to observe the response of the wider European football community to the crisis and its effects. There are countless examples of sacrifices being made, of help, assistance and comfort being offered... of football caring. The wealth of positive stories across the continent has warmed the heart, and does our sport great honour and credit. This is a time of reflection for us all. Everyone who holds football close to their hearts will cherish the moment when the beautiful game returns with its excitement, drama and passion – from the grassroots to the highest levels – and we can all celebrate its eternal magic. And when football finally kicks off again, it will be essential to remember the qualities that have come to the fore in this crisis: cooperation, unity, solidarity. Just as these qualities are guiding our actions at present, they will also provide the foundations for our recovery in the future.

UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 03 CONTENTS CONTENTS

IN THIS ISSUE

MAY/JUNE 2020

Official publication of the Union of European Football Associations UEFA 18 Interview Chief editor: Veterans’ football UEFA Executive Committee Emmanuel Deconche 32 The health benefits of low-intensity football member Davor Šuker has lived Deputy chief editor: are beyond doubt. and breathed football all his life. UEFA Dominique Maurer

Chief writer: Mark Chaplin

Subeditor: Susan Angel

External contributor: Simon Hart (pages 6-11, 26-31)

Translations: UEFA Language Services

Production: Touchline

Printing: Artgraphic Cavin,

CH-1422 Grandson UEFA

Editorial deadline: 23 April 2020 14 44th UEFA Congress plays host to this year’s UEFA Congress.

10 COVID-19 35 UEFA Assist All across Europe, football is making a The UEFA Assist programme is difference in society’s response to COVID-19. helping the development of football in .

17 UEFA Nations League Getty Images The draw for the second UEFA Nations 36 Partnership with CONMEBOL League makes for some exciting encounters UEFA and the South American football iStock neutral 01-20-867309 Printed Matter myclimate.org when the time comes. confederation sign a new memorandum 26 The Technician of understanding. The right nutrition is essential if players are to be in peak condition for major 06 COVID-19 24 UEFA Grow competitions. Timeline of UEFA’s response to the pandemic. The key role of public affairs work in building 37 News from member associations strategic and sustainable partnerships. UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 05

RESPONSE TO COVID-19 OUTBREAK

FOOTBALL SHOWS SOLIDARITY TO DEAL TUESDAY WITH UNPRECEDENTED 17 MARCH

CHALLENGE UEFA EURO 2020 postponed

UEFA announced the postponement of EURO 2020 following domestic and UEFA club competitions by 30 June, if the UEFA and the continent’s football stakeholders have been working together in a series of videoconference meetings with European football’s circumstances allowed for this. the face of the coronavirus pandemic which has halted ordinary life across Europe. stakeholders in which there was a unanimous agreement on The precise details included: the importance of completing the 2019/20 club season. The Europe-wide tournament, set to take place from 12 June to National team competitions 12 July 2020, was postponed until 2021, when it will run • The play-off qualifying matches for EURO 2020 scheduled from 11 June to 11 July. to be played in March 2020 were postponed until the In its media release, the European governing body said: international windows of June 2020, subject to a review “The health of all those involved in the game is the priority, as of the situation. well as to avoid placing any unnecessary pressure on national • The rescheduling of Matchdays 3 and 4 of the European UEFA issues videoconference public services involved in staging matches. The move will Qualifiers scheduled to take place in June 2021. help all domestic competitions, currently on hold due to the • The UEFA Nations League finals, the European Under-21 invitation COVID-19 emergency, to be completed.” Championship final tournament and the UEFA Women’s The decision, taken by UEFA’s Executive Committee, EURO all scheduled between June and July 2021 would be THURSDAY In light of the ongoing developments in the spread of came after UEFA had consulted the presidents and rescheduled accordingly. COVID-19 around Europe and the changing analysis of the general secretaries of the 55 national associations, as • Clubs to release players to national teams for all 12 MARCH World Health Organization, UEFA invited representatives of well as representatives of the ECA, EL and FIFPRO Europe. rescheduled . its 55 member associations, together with the boards of the UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin had convened the European Club Association (ECA) and the videoconference to find a coherent plan to break the logjam Club competitions (EL) and a representative of FIFPRO Europe, the players’ union, of fixtures building up owing to the spread of the virus across • A commitment to complete all domestic and UEFA club to attend meetings by videoconference on Tuesday 17 March the continent. competitions by the end of the current sporting season, i.e. to discuss a united response to the outbreak. The UEFA president said: “The health of fans, staff and 30 June 2020 at the latest, should the situation improve players has to be our one priority and, in that spirit, and a resumption be appropriate and prudent enough. UEFA tabled a range of options so that competitions can • Possible limitations or cuts in current exclusive calendar finish this season safely and I am proud of the response of my slots, potentially resulting in the scheduling of domestic colleagues across European football. There was a real spirit league matches in midweek and scheduling of UEFA club of cooperation, with everyone recognising that they had to competition matches on weekends. sacrifice something in order to achieve the best result. • Possible adaptations of the 2020/21 UEFA Champions “It was important that, as the governing body of European League and UEFA Europa League qualifying rounds in case Club competition fixtures football, UEFA led the process and made the biggest sacrifice. of late completion of the 2019/20 sporting season, i.e. after for coming week postponed Moving EURO 2020 comes at a huge cost for UEFA but we 30 June 2020. will do our best to ensure that the vital funding for grassroots, women’s football and the development of the game in our Working groups put in place SUNDAY UEFA announced the postponement of all UEFA club 55 countries is not affected. Purpose over profit has been UEFA also announced the setting up of working groups with competition matches scheduled for the week starting our guiding principle in taking this decision for the good of representatives of the leagues and clubs to examine calendar 15 MARCH 16 March. This included the remaining UEFA Champions European football as a whole.” solutions to allow for the completion of the current season League round of 16 second-leg matches on 17/18 March and any other consequence of the decisions made. (including two fixtures scheduled to take place behind Contingency plan agreed, competitions frozen A first working group composed of representatives of UEFA, closed doors, Bayern München v Chelsea and As an outcome of their discussions, UEFA, the ECA, EL and leagues and clubs was immediately established to examine v Napoli); all UEFA Europa League round of 16 second-leg FIFPRO Europe signed a resolution on European football’s relevant calendar matters and devise solutions allowing for matches on 19 March; and all UEFA Youth League quarter- broader response to the challenges created by the COVID-19 the resumption and/or conclusion of the current season in final matches on 17/18 March. pandemic. The principles of the contingency plan that a coherent manner. A second working group composed As a consequence of the postponements, the UEFA was unanimously agreed regarding the 2019/20 season of representatives of UEFA, leagues, clubs and players Champions League and UEFA Europa League quarter-final included the postponement until further notice of all UEFA would be set up at a later stage to assess the economic, draws scheduled for 20 March were also postponed. competitions and matches (including friendlies) for clubs financial and regulatory impact of the COVID-19 outbreak and national teams for both men and women. There was and propose measures to help mitigate the consequences agreement too on a shared commitment to complete all of the pandemic.

06 – UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 07 Postponement of UEFA competitions

UEFA announced the postponement until further notice of a number of futsal tournaments and events. All seven UEFA FRIDAY Futsal EURO 2022 qualifying round play-off ties were postponed to later dates, tentatively between June and mid-December. 20 MARCH The qualifying group stage draw scheduled for 14 May was THURSDAY postponed to 7 July. 23 APRIL

UEFA encourages completion of top-tier domestic competitions

After meeting via videoconference, the UEFA Executive The Executive Committee also decided to release Showpiece finals officially postponed Committee underlined its wish for national associations and immediately the club benefit payments relating to clubs’ leagues to complete their 2019/20 domestic competitions, contribution to UEFA’s national team competitions, in light where possible. It also stressed the importance of admission of the financial difficulties many clubs are facing. Such UEFA gave official confirmation of its decision to postpone to UEFA’s club competitions “on sporting merit”. payments include €50m to clubs with players in the 39 this May’s UEFA Women’s Champions League final, UEFA MONDAY In its statement UEFA said: “The ideal scenario, should national teams not involved in the play-offs and €17.7m Europa League final and UEFA Champions League final. 23 MARCH the pandemic situation permit it, is to have the currently to clubs with players from the 16 national teams involved. No decision had yet been made on rearranged dates. suspended domestic competitions completed enabling football clubs to qualify for UEFA club competitions on sporting merit Women’s EURO 2020 moved to 2022 WEDNESDAY in their original format. Should this outcome not be possible, The Executive Committee confirmed the postponement in particular due to calendar issues, it would be preferable of UEFA Women’s EURO 2021, with the tournament 1 APRIL that suspended domestic competitions would restart with a rescheduled for 6 July to 31 July 2022 in , As for different format in a manner which would still facilitate clubs UEFA EURO 2020, the decision was taken to retain its to qualify on sporting merit.” original name, even though the event will now take place UEFA acknowledged there might be “legitimate reasons” in 2021 owing to the coronavirus pandemic. UEFA postpones all June national-team matches for domestic campaigns to be ended prematurely but stressed that it reserved the right to refuse or evaluate the admission to any club proposed by a national association should it have See report on p12 for more details Following a videoconference meeting with the general (iv) the European Under-19 Championship final tournament acted outside of UEFA’s stated criteria. secretaries of all 55 UEFA member associations and scheduled for July 2020 was postponed until further notice recommendations made by the working groups created on (as it is a qualifying competition for the FIFA U-20 World 17 March, the UEFA Executive Committee decided to postpone Cup). all national team matches scheduled for June as well as to • The UEFA Futsal Champions League finals scheduled for THURSDAY cancel the 2020 European Under-17 Championship and April 2020 were postponed until further notice. European Women’s Under-19 Championship final tournaments. • The deadlines related to all 2020/21 UEFA club competitions 9 APRIL The UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League were postponed until further notice, in particular as regards campaigns remained on hold “until further notice”. the admission process and the registration of players. UEFA supports initiative New deadlines would be set in due course. The full list of decisions comprised the following: • All national team matches for men and women due to be Temporary amendments to club The UEFA Foundation for Children announced plans to that the board of trustees of the UEFA Foundation for played in June 2020 were postponed until further notice. licensing process contribute to the Common Goal COVID-19 Response Fund, Children decided to join this initiative, to allow football This included the play-off matches for UEFA EURO 2020 and The Executive Committee also reiterated its full commitment a newly launched initiative to fund charities focused on to play a role of social responsibility.” qualifying matches for UEFA Women’s EURO 2021. to club licensing and financial fair play and agreed that the helping children in the world’s poorest communities to cope “This is a really positive step for the Common Goal • All other UEFA competition matches, including the centralised current exceptional circumstances necessitated some specific with the coronavirus pandemic’s devastating impact. COVID-19 Response Fund and I would like to thank the international friendly matches, remained postponed until interventions to facilitate the work of member associations The foundation became the first sports institution to UEFA Foundation for Children,” added Manchester United further notice. and clubs. It supported the proposal to give member support the Response Fund set up two days earlier by , the first member to join Common • Youth national team competitions: associations more time to complete the club licensing process, Common Goal – a group of 150 players, managers and Goal back in August 2017. “To overcome the coronavirus (i) the European Under-17 Championship final tournament until the admission process for next season’s UEFA club leaders who have pledged 1% of their annual earnings from and the other challenges facing humanity, we need scheduled for May 2020 was cancelled; competitions had been redefined. football to charities working with some of the world’s most to coordinate individual efforts and work together as (ii) the European Women’s Under-19 Championship final As a result of the increasing uncertainty generated by the vulnerable children. a team.” tournament scheduled for July 2020 was cancelled; ongoing extraordinary events, the Executive Committee also “In these difficult times, which affect many countries The UEFA Foundation for Children’s contribution to (iii) the European Women’s Under-17 Championship final decided to suspend the club licensing provisions relating to and especially the most fragile populations, it is important the Common Goal COVID-19 Response Fund will help tournament scheduled for May 2020 was postponed until the preparation and assessment of clubs’ future financial to coordinate and organise responses adapted to each to support youngsters affected by the pandemic. Aside further notice (as it is a qualifying competition for the FIFA information. This decision applies exclusively to participation situation,” said UEFA president and UEFA Foundation for from the short-term aims, the foundation will also look to U-17 Women’s ); in the 2020/21 UEFA club competitions. Children chairman Aleksander Čeferin, himself a supporter ensure that assistance will continue, with a focus being of Common Goal since November 2017. “It is for this reason placed on communities in conflict zones.

08 – UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 09 RESPONSE TO COVID-19 OUTBREAK

4 10 EUROPEAN FOOTBALL STANDS UNITED AGAINST COVID-19 CRISIS

European football’s competitions may be on hold, but the world’s most popular 6 sport still has a frontline role to play in society’s response to COVID-19. 3 12

OVID-19 has temporarily From Belfast to , national is making a difference across Europe: 2 11 postponed UEFA plans to celebrate associations, clubs and players have whether raising funds to purchase 8 5 C 60 years of the European launched countless initiatives to ensure medical equipment, producing Championshipwith a tournament more people comply with Government training videos about staying fit at bridging the entire continent, but the regulations on social distancing and home, delivering food to the elderly European football community remains staying at home. and vulnerable or using the sport’s 7 9 1 more united than ever in its off-the-field With the aim of inspiring others, we enormous reach to deliver vital response to the pandemic. highlight a few of the ways that football health messages.

1 : Putting a smile back on : Les Bleus support frontline : Football funds lifesaving equipment : Footballers ask expats the faces of football fans 2 healthcare staff 7 for local hospitals 8 not to travel

In a national campaign to boost the morale of football supporters staying The French Football Federation (FFF), together with national team players and The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has launched a joint fundraising Former internationals and feature in a at home, Azerbaijan’s professional football league is sharing fun photos staff, are making a significant donation to France’s Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux campaign with a leading broadcaster to help pay for new equipment for Romanian Football Federation video advising all Romanians living abroad from domestic league matches on its Instagram channels. Among the clubs, de (Paris university hospital trust) to support healthcare staff. The contribution the country’s hospitals and charitable institutions. By mid-April, the initiative to help slow the spread of COVID-19 by postponing plans to visit their FC Sabah players, coaching staff and employees have collected more than will go towards improving the daily lives of caregivers as well as funding hospital had raised over €500,000, thanks in part to national team players sharing homeland. Elsewhere, a chain of Italian restaurants owned by Cosmin €25,000 for a national coronavirus fund. The club has also produced a research. The FFF has also reserved 5,000 seats for health their experiences of living in isolation. Among other initiatives, Cristiano Olăroiu, currently head coach of Chinese side Jiangsu Suning, is delivering video in support of the nation’s doctors and nurses, who are risking their professionals for the national team’s first home match once football resumes, with Ronaldo announced a €1 million project that will pay for three intensive hot meals to staff at ’s main hospital for infectious diseases, while lives on the front line of Azerbaijan’s COVID-19 response effort. another 1,000 tickets for the women’s national team’s return to action. care units at hospitals in and Porto. Răzvan Raț, capped 113 times, has offered rooms in his hotel for anyone placed in quarantine.

3 : ’s UEFA Champions 4 : ‘Keeping moving’ is League participants show solidarity the message : clubs rally to help 10 : Clubs support on several fronts 9 local communities Germany’s UEFA Champions League participants – , The of Iceland (KSÍ) has launched a social media Several clubs have placed players and staff at the disposal of FC Bayern München, RB Leipzig and – have set up a campaign called Áfram Ísland or ‘Keeping moving’. This encourages young Real and the national sports council have teamed up to create organisations and businesses, including IF Elfsborg and Malmö FF, whose CEO solidarity fund worth €20 million to help clubs in both the Bundesliga and footballers and their families to stay fit for the day football can safely kick a medical supplies centre at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, with the Niclas Carlnén packed bags of groceries for the Stadsmissionen charity, while 2. Bundesliga who are struggling to cope with the economic consequences off again. Every day, video clips of training exercises for ten-year-olds are Real Madrid Foundation running a fundraising campaign asking fans to AIK are delivering 5,000 meals to medical staff at Solna’s Karolinska Hospital. of football’s shutdown. posted on Instagram and , some including a personal message contribute to the cost of critical medical equipment. FC Barcelona has also BK Häcken players have made videos emphasising the importance of sticking To establish the fund, the four clubs will forego their share of the from members of the men’s or women’s national teams, with goalkeeper offered its facilities to the Catalan government if additional hospital space to social distancing regulations, with messages recorded in Arabic, Finnish undistributed national media revenue from the German Football League Hannes Halldórsson’s training tips proving a big hit. is needed, while Atlético de Madrid women’s player has and Spanish as well as Swedish to ensure they are fully understood in (DFL) for the 2020/21 season (approximately €12.5 million) and also allocate volunteered to work in a Madrid hospital after recently graduating multiethnic . €7.5 million of their own resources. in medicine.

Italy: Azzurri set #TheRulesOfTheGame 5 6 : PZPN’s financial package to 11 : National players add 12 Ukraine: Association and clubs fund medical for defeating COVID-19 help clubs voice to #CoroNo equipment for hospitals

The Italian Football Association (FIGC) has written #TheRulesOfTheGame The Polish Football Association (PZPN) will allocate €25 million to help After contracting COVID-19 himself, Swiss Football Association (SFV) The Ukrainian Association of Football (UAF) has taken a lead role in for a national information campaign using the power of calcio to enforce men’s and women’s football at all levels survive the economic impact of the president Dominique Blanc launched #CoroNo from quarantine – a digital helpingveteran footballers who are self-isolating to safeguard against public compliance, particularly among the young, with 11 critical ‘rules’ to shutdown. Almost half will go to clubs taking part in next season’s campaign promoting public health messages and encouraging more people COVID-19 infection. contain the spread of COVID-19. Leading men’s and women’s nationalteam as well as the first and second divisions – on the condition that the funds to stay at home to avoid catching or transmitting the virus. The SFV has In addition, both the UAF and leading Ukrainian clubs Dynamo Kiev, players are delivering the rules through video messages posted under benefit youth players and coaches, and are not used to pay players’ salaries. published a daily video message from different national team players, each Kolos Kovalivka, Vorskla Poltava and PFC Olexandriya have purchased critical the hashtag #TheRulesoftheGame. The campaign also gives Italians the National team pair and Jakub Błaszczykowski, meanwhile, explaining how they are spending their time at home and repeating the ventilators to help local hospitals give life-saving treatment to patients with chance to donate money to support national health facilities. have both made substantial donations to Polish hospitals. Swiss health ministry’s key recommendations. severe coronavirus infections.

10 – UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 11 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Based on the payment distribution receive these payments as quickly natural conclusion – while emphasising mechanism approved by the Executive as possible.” that the health of players, spectators and WOMEN’S EURO NOW Committee, €70m will be distributed all those involved in football, as well as among those clubs which released Working groups the public at large, should remain the players for the European Qualifiers and The committee received reports from primary concern. SET FOR 2022 the UEFA Nations League, and the the working groups established in remaining €130m will be distributed partnership with the European Club UEFA EURO 2020 UEFA Women’s EURO 2021 postponed to 2022; immediate release of club benefit among those clubs releasing players for Association (ECA), European Leagues (EL) Following the postponement of UEFA UEFA EURO 2020. A total of 676 clubs and the players’ union FIFPRO Europe, EURO 2020 to the summer of 2021, the payments for clubs’ contributions to UEFA’s national team competitions; green light from the 55 UEFA member associations which have been involved in discussions Executive Committee decided that the for guidelines on eligibility principles for the 2020/21 UEFA club competitions – a will receive amounts ranging from on future scenarios regarding domestic tournament will still be known as UEFA €3,200 up to €630,000 for their football and UEFA club competitions. EURO 2020. series of key decisions taken by the UEFA Executive Committee at its videoconference contribution to the European Qualifiers The committee also heard a report on This enables UEFA to keep the original meeting on 23 April. and the UEFA Nations League for the the work of the newly established vision of the tournament to celebrate the 2018–20 period. medical subgroup tasked with examining 60th anniversary of the European Football For UEFA EURO 2020, a minimum of the health issues surrounding a return Championship, as well as make EURO €200 million is available for distribution to football. 2020 sustainable by not generating to clubs, as agreed in the memorandum additional amounts of waste, given that of understanding (MoU) between UEFA Eligibility principles considerable branded material had already and the ECA, which was renewed in The committee approved guidelines on been produced by the time of the 2019. “European clubs are an integral eligibility principles for 2020/21 UEFA tournament’s postponement. part of the success of our national team club competitions. The guidelines Finally, turning to the European competitions,” said the UEFA president. approved at the 23 April meeting Under-21 Championship finals, the “As a result, a share of our national reflected the principle that admission to committee heard that options for the team competition revenues is distributed UEFA club competitions should always rearrangement or postponement of the to the clubs which release players for be based on sporting merit. tournament would, following examination those matches. In these difficult times UEFA urged national associations and by the National Team Competitions when many clubs are facing financial leagues to explore all possible options to Committee, lead to a final decision being issues, especially with their cash flow, play all top domestic competitions giving taken by the Executive Committee at its it was our duty to make sure that clubs access to UEFA club competitions to their next meeting on 27 May 2020.

With the next Women’s EURO Future hosts appointed in Amsterdam having been postponed by a year, fans will have Chaired by UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin, the Executive Committee met on the eve of to wait until summer the 44th Ordinary UEFA Congress in the Dutch capital on 2 March. 2022 to find out who will claim the title won by the While the following day’s Congress (Finland) and Kazan ensuring availability of well-educated

UEFA in 2017. was obviously uppermost in everyone’s Arena () respectively. professional and amateur coaches on mind, the committee decided that the Other decisions in Amsterdam saw and off the field; and assuring the 45th Ordinary UEFA Congress would the Executive Committee approve the ongoing quality of football. he Executive Committee has forefront of our thinking,” said UEFA clubs amid the current crisis. The payments be held in the Belarusian capital of 2020 version of the UEFA Coaching Finally, the committee approved confirmed that owing to the president Aleksander Čeferin. “By moving will be as follows: on 2 March 2021. Convention. The convention has the 2020 UEFA Medical Regulations, T COVID-19 crisis, the next Women’s UEFA Women’s EURO to the following year, Turning to forthcoming UEFA club a variety of objectives, including as well as various regulations for EURO will now be held in England from we are ensuring that our flagship women’s • €50m will go to clubs that have released competition finals, the committee establishing football coaching as a forthcoming UEFA club and national 6 to 31 July 2022, with matches played at competition will be the only major football players for the 39 national teams not appointed the Puskás Aréna in recognised, regulated profession; team competitions. the same venues as originally proposed to tournament of the summer, providing it involved in the European Qualifiers as the venue for the 2022 UEFA Europa host the event. with the spotlight it deserves.” play-offs. League final. The 2022 and 2023 finals The decision to move UEFA Women’s • €17.7m will go to clubs that have of the UEFA Women’s Champions The Puskás Aréna in EURO came after UEFA announced on Club benefit payments released players for the 16 national teams League will take place in Turin () and Budapest will host 17 March that UEFA EURO 2020 would be In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the taking part in the European Qualifiers Eindhoven (Netherlands) respectively. the UEFA Europa postponed to 2021 following the global committee agreed to immediately release play-offs (not including payments for the The 2022 and 2023 UEFA club League final in 2022.

outbreak of COVID-19, and given UEFA’s club benefit payments relating to clubs’ play-off matches, which will be paid on competition seasons will kick off in Getty Images duty to protect the health of all those contributions to UEFA’s national team completion of the play-offs). traditional fashion with the UEFA Super involved in football. competitions. The payments were to be • The balance of €2.7m – related to players Cup matches – bringing together the “We have carefully considered all released following the European Qualifiers released for the play-offs – will be previous season’s UEFA Champions options, with our commitment to the play-offs, but have been brought forward distributed upon completion of these League and UEFA Europa League growth of women’s football at the in view of financial challenges faced by play-off matches in the autumn. winners – taking place at the

12 – UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 CONGRESS CONGRESS

n his address to representatives of UEFA’s more than 160,000 qualified referees, 55 member associations and 144,000 amateur clubs and 1,900 Idistinguished guests at the Beurs van professional clubs; Berlage conference centre in the Dutch • UEFA Champions League final: world’s capital, the UEFA president hailed European most watched annual club football event; football as “the greatest success story of • Beyond Europe: 13 billion cumulative modern-day sport”. He promised that global audience for all UEFA-organised UEFA would continue to nurture the matches over a three-year cycle; constant progress of European football • Digital engagement for UEFA through proper and efficient use of all its competitions: more than 18 billion resources – but emphasised that the social media interactions last season. European football family had to put “purpose before profit”. “Our primary objective is to protect, “Should our success be measured only promote and develop football across in terms of our commercial achievements, Europe. I would go as far as to say power or should it be able to take bold decisions is worthless unless it incorporates the that are not always guided by financial notion of purpose over profit.” interests?” he asked. “Purpose over profit. The UEFA president insisted that the That is the key.” European sports model, based on promotion, relegation and solidarity, Key achievements should be defended with “strength, The UEFA president underlined the conviction and legitimacy”. achievements of European football’s “If our success enables us to ward off governing body and the wider European threats that appear on the horizon, we game: can be proud,” he said. “These threats • The doubling of the UEFA Foundation are alarming. And we need to anticipate for Children’s budget was benefitting the worst if we are to prevent it.” almost one million disadvantaged children around the world; Respecting principles, • Redistribution of funds: 87% of UEFA history and structure income redistributed throughout The UEFA president reflected that European football; football was not simply a business like • Europe’s growing football family: any other. “It has a history, tradition around 20 million registered players, and structure that must be respected. ‘PURPOSE OVER Just Spee: ‘We need to be innovative’

PROFIT’ – UEFA The Netherlands has an exuberant regardless of your sexual passion for football – the Royal orientation. Football brings people Netherlands Football Association together. There are no exceptions.” PRESIDENT’S (KNVB) has 1.2 million members Just Spee, the KNVB president, belonging to over 3,000 football said that the Netherlands was CONGRESS clubs and playing 33,000 matches committed to playing a key role in every week. In addition, around the game’s development. “We look 400,000 volunteers are kept busy beyond the present and the past, far MESSAGE making this all possible. In welcoming into the future,” he said. “Our sport Congress delegates to Amsterdam, no longer develops along ancient the Dutch minister for medical care pathways alone. There are all kinds Amsterdam played host to the 44th Ordinary and sport, Bruno Bruins, spoke of new horizons in all directions UEFA Congress on 3 March – with UEFA president of the game’s enduring power as of the globe. We need to be a social force. “Football connects innovative, both in the sport itself Aleksander Čeferin issuing a warning that the people… all members of our society,” and in terms of stewardship. The European football community must act to prevent he said. “Regardless of your skin KNVB wants to be co-responsible, colour, regardless of your limitations, an incubator for the football of 2050 UEFA the over-commercialisation of the game. UEFA regardless of your religion and and beyond.”

14 – UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 15 CONGRESS

Our principles, history, tradition and In addressing the challenges being structure are the reason for our current caused by racist conduct in football EXCITING MATCHES AHEAD Foundation’s success. There are certain principles stadiums, the UEFA president said that he, first five years that are sacrosanct. The right for and many others, had been “sickened” by confederations to organise continental what they had witnessed in a number of The 2020/21 UEFA Nations League draw was held in Amsterdam on 3 March, The Amsterdam Congress competitions is an inalienable right. European stadiums this season. “That is not provided the ideal opportunity The principles of solidarity, of promotion, football,” he said. “Football is, above all, with a number of changes to the competition’s format compared with its to celebrate the fifth relegation and open leagues are also a celebration of life, community and unity. inaugural edition. anniversary of the UEFA non-negotiable. It’s an exchange. It’s about sharing. Foundation for Children, “If our success enables us to prevent The problem is not on the pitch, where the body set up by UEFA in the over-commercialisation of our diversity is greater than in any other sport ast September, the UEFA Executive 2015 to find ways of using sport…, enables us to develop football and probably any other part of society. Committee decided to restructure the football to support children across the continent [and] promote social The problem is in our societies, in the LUEFA Nations League, with 16 teams across the world and defend cohesion and show future generations stands. Things need to change.” in Leagues A, B and C, and seven teams in their rights. The foundation’s that football must be synonymous with League D. The teams were allocated to general secretary, Urs Kluser, openness, tolerance and diversity, we Elections leagues based on their overall ranking focused on the projects and can be proud. We are the guardians of Two elections took place in Amsterdam. following the first edition. achievements that have marked a legacy…, here to protect the game, (Germany) was elected to the This change to the format follows a a memorable first five years for its players and its history.” UEFA Executive Committee as a member for consultation process involving all 55 UEFA the foundation. a one-year term, while Noël Le Graët (France) member associations and reflects their Football for everyone was elected to the FIFA Council as a member desire to further reduce the number of 245 projects since 2015 The UEFA president said it was for a three-year term. The 2018/19 UEFA friendly matches. It also enhances sporting “Over the course of these great imperative to foster football across annual report was approved, along with fairness as all teams in the same group will five years,” Urs Kluser said, “the Europe – “as we do with the 87% of the 2018/19 financial statements and the play their last match on the same day and foundation has contributed to our income redistributed throughout budget for the 2020/21 financial year. at the same time. the protection of children and European football” – and “give girls Various amendments to the UEFA Statutes The draw in Amsterdam on 3 March their rights through football and boys from all walks of life, from all were also approved, and delegates ratified produced the following groups: by providing grants for 245 ethnic, social and religious backgrounds, the composition of both the UEFA Organs for projects. The foundation has the chance to play football in the best the Administration of Justice and the UEFA LEAGUE A been able to support projects possible conditions”. Successes, he Governance and Compliance Committee. Group 1 Netherlands, Italy, Bosnia in 100 countries on all five added, were also providing the Following approval by the UEFA Executive and Herzegovina, Poland continents. opportunity to invest in women’s Committee at its meeting in Amsterdam Group 2 England, , , “While many of the projects football “to inspire the millions of girls the previous day, next year’s UEFA Congress Iceland have emphasised children’s who dream of becoming tomorrow’s will take place in Minsk, , on Group 3 Portugal, France, Sweden, health, education and top players, referees or coaches.” 2 March 2021. Group 4 Switzerland, Spain, Ukraine, UEFA integration, the foundation Germany has also devoted its attention to victims of conflict, especially LEAGUE B The teams will play each other home and will feature semi-finals, a third-place refugees, and the promotion Group 1 Austria, , Northern away, with the four League A group match and the final. The group winners of youth employment through Ireland, Romania winners qualifying for the finals, which in Leagues B, C and D will be promoted football.” Group 2 , , and those finishing bottom of the groups Slovakia, in Leagues A and B will be relegated. Using football’s power Group 3 Russia, Serbia, , As League C has four groups while for children Group 4 , Finland, Republic of League D has only two, the two League C “We are very proud to be Ireland, teams to be relegated will be determined one of the ways that European by two-leg play-offs. Following the football can give back to LEAGUE C decision to postpone EURO 2020 to society, and use the power of Group 1 Montenegro, Cyprus, 11 June – 11 July 2021 and the need the game to defend children’s Luxembourg, Azerbaijan to reschedule the European Qualifiers rights,” he added. “It gives Group 2 Georgia, , play-offs, originally scheduled for them the opportunity to play Estonia, March 2020, the UEFA Nations League and forget about their problems Group 3 Greece, , , Moldova calendar is currently being reviewed and for a while, and it helps them Group 4 , Belarus, Lithuania, the new match dates will be confirmed in succeed in the future.” due course.

LEAGUE D Group 1 , , Malta, Following the resounding success of the inaugural UEFA Nations League, won by Portugal, the Group 2 , Liechtenstein, second edition is set to start once Getty Images

UEFA San Marino the calendar has been finalised.

16 – UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 17 O BREATHING FOOTBALL EATINGLIVING, AND I believe Croatia and the world will come come will world the Croatia and I believe period. difficult this during power unifying and solidarity its showing truly is family The football fight. to this contributing is who everybody and scientists the all to as well as to them, We thankful are inCroatia. job a great doing are who nurses, and doctors staff, medical our help to We wanted funds. relief earthquake and coronavirus to the donations major made both players team national our and Federation Croatian Football The crisis. to this reacted community football the of how proud Iam homes. their without left were many people and girl, young of one loss the mourning We are inZagreb. for everybody moment aterrifying was in Croatia. It worse even things made earthquake a devastating and country, every for times difficult are These COVID-19 pandemic? the facing country the is how and 22 March, on earthquake the of aftermath the in coping Croatia is how all, of First life his infootball. about to him talks UEFA Direct Committee. UEFA Executive of the amember as and (HNS), Federation Croatian Football the of president as Šukerfor Davor role inhis UEFA's in2004. jubilee golden to mark Player Golden country’s the as crowned was He medal. bronze coveted Croatia a brought and Shoe Golden tournament’s himthe CupWorld earned 1998 the at goals six his and Madrid, 18 1860TSV , and his 69 games for Croatia between 1992 and 2002 yielded another 45 strikes. appearances for NK Osijek, Dinamo , Sevilla, Real Madrid, Arsenal, West Ham and He was afeared handful for even the best opposition defenders –scoring 203 times in 448 splendid 19-year career, and they made him an icon as one of Europe’s most prolific front runners. Goals were Davor Šuker’s business as afootballer. The Croatian scored them in abundance in a INTERVIEW There are goals of another kind now now kind of another goals are There – UEFA DIRECT •May/June 2020 DAVOR ŠUKER Champions League with Real Real with League Champions 1997/98 the and UEFAtitle Šuker aSpanish won sijek-born and relieved that I had those same genes! genes! same those Ihad that relieved and I’m level. happy team national reached player, Everyone my uncle. was so and avolleyball was sister My shot-putter. a was athlete; he an was father My sport. in involved Yes, been has family entire the family? sporting a from come you Do infootball… my days end Iwill that think Icertainly and football, in work now and football I have played myYou life infootball, know, Istarted age? early a very from fan afootball you Were that moment! to ’ back getting insociety steps important most of the one be will of football return I'm the sure that television. on games watch live or stadium to the go can't we when it miss we much we'll how know because sport, other every and football for love and respect have anew-found we'll think stronger. Ialso even of this out Getty Images normality – and I can't wait for wait Ican't ’ –and

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. I used to enjoy to enjoy Iused Rummenigge. Karl-Heinz chairman] Munich [and Bayern current forward German Yes, great the Iadmired ayoungster? as footballer have you afavourite Did successful. Iwas fortunately, and goals, Iscored goals, myself I set career… by step, playing step Iwent my throughout me with stayed That pitch. the on and intraining both job, 100% my concentrated on I always So game. next inthe to score looking always agoalscorer, as you’re me. And with stay wouldn’t need sometimes you that luck the seriously, goals take scoring I didn’t if that was attitude lightly! My goalscoring took Inever changed. never that and for goals, Ilived start, very the From 1987. in title youth world the win Yugoslavia helped goals your later, and years of acouple Yugoslavia’s league in scorer leading finished 16, you at Osijek NK club hometown with debut your made –you goalscorer a as mark your made soon you And leagues. top inthe played and successful have been there from players Many Osijek. of inmy hometown system coaching great a Ihad was thing important most The a footballer… as talent aspecial had you that age early an from clear was It which Germanywent ontowin2-1. against BelgiuminthefinalofEURO 1980, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge,inactionhere Davor Šuker's’dreamplayerwasGermany's

UEFA UEFA DIRECT •May/June 2020 – INTERVIEW 19 INTERVIEW

watching him on the two TV channels that Davor Šuker opens the scoring for Croatia we had at the time. He was very strong “People think it was just a matter of going in with my World against France in the athletically, and he was my dream player. Cup Golden Shoe and saying: ‘Hey, I’m here. I won the Golden semi-finals of the 1998 I got to know him later on in life, and World Cup semi-final, Shoe, I want to be president.’ It wasn’t like that at all. There where he finished as whenever I see him I enjoy his company. the leading scorer. There’s a mutual respect between us. was a lot of preparatory work and learning to be done, and He’s very much a man of football. that process has never stopped since I became president.”

You went on to enjoy a fine career with several major clubs, and gained international renown as a member of the outstanding that particular game was a really proud moment. Luckily, everything went as Croatian team that finished third moment for all of us. I imagined, and we got an important in the 1998 World Cup in France – win against the reigning European a tournament in which you also And out of all the goals that you champions. It was a great day for won the Golden Shoe as leading scored, do you have a particular our team! scorer. When you look back, is favourite? there any moment in your career My best goal is probably the one against How much of being a top that gives you particular pride? Denmark at EURO '96. It was a great footballer depends on talent, and Yes, at that World Cup in 1998 – the piece of action from our team – I have how much depends on hard work? third-place play-off against the to mention the great pass I received from It’s clear that without hard work, nothing Getty Images Netherlands. We’d lost the semi-final Aljoša Asanović prior to the goal. That comes true. To be successful, football has against the hosts France, and now we goal combined everything I’d learned as to be your life. You have to be dedicated had to lift ourselves to play against the a young footballer, starting with a good to the job, to the ball. You need to love I learned something from every coach – men at the Croatian federation – my to being a player… if you work hard and Dutch – an excellent team with big players. first touch, which is really important. the ball; it’s your friend, you spend 24 Luis Aragonés, Carlos Bilardo, Ćiro predecessor Vlatko Marković, who spent get results, you will be chosen again. We’d had a great tournament and had You've got to have good feeling for time hours with it, you might even take it to Blažević… and Arsène Wenger, my 14 years as president, and the long-serving I open my heart. I’m not a person who done so well; we’d worked extremely hard. and space, excellent ball control and bed with you! And I worked hard, coach at Arsenal, was very important. general secretary Zorislav Srebrić. They will close off his ideas. I tell people what And now, we had one final challenge – – most importantly for that goal – I had because I wanted this success. I liked the consistency of his work. were important guides for me. I would like to do: “I will follow these to overcome disappointment, win and to strike the ball at the ideal moment He stayed the same whether we had rules, I will do this.” And then, people finish third. We won the game 2-1, and and with the appropriate part of my Players at the highest level also won well or lost badly. He realised the Did your playing career also help either follow you or they don’t. That’s I scored. It was my sixth goal in the foot, knowing that I'd got the great work with distinguished coaches. importance of looking ahead as soon as you in this respect? part of life. tournament, and I was fortunate enough goalkeeper in front of Which ones impressed you in possible after a setback. He said: “When Well, people think it was just a matter of to win the Golden Shoe. That victory in me, who looked like a giant at that your career? you lose a game, the only going in with my World Cup Golden Shoe Under your presidency, Croatia’s thing you can do to change things is to and saying: “Hey, I’m here. I won the football has enjoyed high-level move on to the next game. You must look Golden Shoe, I want to be president.” success – the national team’s to make sure that you win the three points It wasn’t like that at all. There was a lot of magnificent run to the 2018 World the next time around – in doing so, you preparatory work and learning to be done, Cup final is a highlight, and there make up for the bad game before.” and that process has never stopped since have been regular appearances in major international tournaments…

Getty Images I became president. You must visit the What inspired you to take the various regions in the country, talk, Since 1998, in fact, Croatia has only failed administrative route after such consult, organise, prepare programmes to qualify for EURO 2000 in Belgium and a distinguished playing career? and strategies. It’s not an easy job, I want the Netherlands and the World Cup in After a football career, a lot of football to say that. And being a president is similar South Africa in 2010. Otherwise, we have players think: “I want to be a sporting director,” or “I want to be a manager or a coach.” I decided that I definitely didn’t want to be a manager or a coach. In addition, I decided not to be a sporting director, and after my football career finished at TSV 1860 Munich, I set up my football academy just to find my space. Eventually, I also became involved in the Croatian Football Federation’s activities and, in 2012, I was fortunate enough to be elected as the federation’s president.

Zagreb, 16 July 2018. How did you learn the skills for Ćiro Blažević is one of The Vatreni receive a heroes’ that role? the coaches to have welcome after finishing as made a big impression runners-up in the World Cup, I learned a considerable amount about on Davor Šuker during an immensely proud moment leadership from two very experienced Getty Images his playing career. for the president of the Croatian Football Federation. UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 21 22 in Amsterdamon2 March. Executive Committeemeeting Davor ŠukerattheUEFA INTERVIEW – UEFA DIRECT •May/June 2020

UEFA UEFA’s and transparent to is be mission to for all see… there are results the and Europe. UEFA respected, is across football for does it of what because also but League, Europa and League Champions the as such of competitions because only leader, not football UEFA aworld-class is achievements? UEFA’s see to encouraged you Are for my club. well working and pitch, the on professional of being my job on concentrated Ijust football, playing Iwas when To work. that on honest, concentrate be really or doing, UEFA was that work the understand fully really Ididn’t differently. it Isaw Yes, playing, Iwas when when you were a player? differently UEFA view you Did Committee. Executive the within respect gets that and best, do I can inwhat to bring Itry part, my own For us. around administration agood add, I must and, committee leader, agood a good – right is balance the so of football, good for the diligently work all committee the on colleagues place. My right inthe man he’s right of course, the and, experience worker, ahard is He great has he job. afine Čeferin, doing is Aleksander UEFA president, The Committee. Executive of the part being enjoy I really the success of European football? to contribute to and Committee, Executive UEFA the of member a be to you for mean it does What there. team of agreat leader the as to serve and federation, of this part to be glad extremely I’m world. the around all respected are Croatian players players. the and league the Federation, Croatian Football of the image the to build constantly strive we and people, of hard-working lot a with atmosphere family have– we this intelligently. lucky Iam to work try we and hard, work –we Croatia country asmall is wisely. revenue the to invest We have tried tournaments. final big the at present been than places like Rijeka.” or Zagreb Osijek, Split, 95%that some of such players come from rather rural settings discovered in rural areas away from the cities. research Our says now with in potential whicha decade youngsters are being “Croatia running programme been has asuccessful for around

countries… other in raised have been who backgrounds family Croatian with There are also those footballers time. the prosper. You yourself to give need really us helped has thinking our and term, [about] all is long the work development to 2028, 2024.EURO just not Youth 2026 to the ahead Cup World and – look far to think ahead be would associations national to other advice My country. small ina example an –setting direction in this work we’re that good means doing This teams. Croatian youth in the pathways their started Cup World or tournaments inEURO have played who players of the majority vast the where asituation seen future. We for the have them prepare to players, young talented country’s a to foster take time and hard to work You places. insuch need football school to monitor need you cities, the outside game to watch the need you there, go to need you So villages. and towns small the from come They Rijeka. or Zagreb Osijek, like Split, places than rather settings rural from come players of such 95% some that says research Our cities. the from away areas inrural discovered being are potential with youngsters which in now adecade for around programme asuccessful running Croatia been has the future? of stars potential the nurture and find to Croatia in do you do What ours. as such association for an crucial is to play. aspect wants This who everyone youngsters, the foundations, of the to take care important equally it’s –but to make happen this in trying everywhere invested is of money alot and likes first, to come everyone course, Of well-being? overall football’s to grassroots the are important How crucial. is of UEFA’s family inthe family. Investing the 55 associations, member members 55 its –helping of football take care and sport so great… so sport and makes football what that’s Ithink players. other and for referees respect coach, for the respect teamwork, as such things You learn aperson. as develop you help can really Football thing. important most year. the of every That’s month every day, every people for other example an to set important it’s inmy position, but You of course, successful, to want be of respect. asense with everything to do me taught education home My you? to mean ‘respect’ word the does Finally, what football. outside have stayed Iwould that imagine really Ican’t honest, to be and sport… in something have done still I would done? have you would have been? What you would what president, association an be to on gone and afootballer, been hadn’t you If team. national Croatian to for the play youngsters of those for many adream it’s and patriotic, quite are Luckily, countries Croatians inother lives. player the of where irrespective can, we player talented every to find need we population bigger amuch with countries with competitive to stay order in and We population, asmall have quite talents. ), new to find in order (, America inSouth as well as , and States, United the as such Croatian populations, large with incountries camps football organise will –we project important avery launching we’re why That’s of quality. footballers for search inour countries other at to for us look important It’s Kovač. Niko and Robert brothers the or Rakitić Ivan as such countries, inother up grown have that team national in our players Croatian some had We have already world. the around [the country], outside Croatians four million in Croatia, and four million are There Federation. Croatian Football for the opportunity abig represents situation This

UEFA DIRECT •

May/June 2020 – INTERVIEW 23

UEFA GROW UEFA GROW

POSITIONING FOOTBALL AS A STRATEGIC PARTNER

The Scottish FA president The UEFA Grow public affairs pillar supports UEFA member associations Rod Petrie (right) and CEO Ian Maxwell (left) in building sustainable partnerships with government institutions and with public finance and migration minister positioning football as a strategic partner. Ben Macpherson at the UEFA SROI club

Scottish FA calculator launch. port is recognised more and more is being done through football to build administrators/politicians and the for the major role it plays in society. better people and better communities. government; only 10% of associations SThe United Nations Sustainable A challenge for football and for most receive funding from non-sports budgets; Ben Macpherson, minister for public Development Goals (SDGs) and the other sports is that the good work is only 16% have a public affairs plan. “Football is Scotland’s national game and can be a powerful force finance and migration, explains that: , through the Enlarged taken for granted, the outcomes are not Despite the power of football and its for good in our communities. The SROI report is an important “Football is Scotland’s national game and Partial Agreement on Sport (EPAS), articulated and the recognition is lost. impact in society, very few national piece of work, and the culmination of a unique partnership can be a powerful force for good in our highlight in their frameworks/charters The UEFA Grow public affairs pillar aims to associations have a strategic approach to communities. The SROI report is an the impact of sport on individuals, support national associations in addressing public affairs, lobbying, funding and policy between the Scottish government, sportscotland, the Scottish important piece of work, and the communities and nations on many levels. this challenge. development. This is a risk, and it is an FA and UEFA over many months to produce robust evidence culmination of a unique partnership Football has the privilege of being the A recent survey conducted by the UEFA opportunity to grow. of football’s contribution to our communities and society.” between the Scottish government, of choice for most people in Grow programme revealed that 80% of sportscotland, the Scottish FA and UEFA most countries; thus football has a bigger UEFA member associations interact with Strategic and sustainable Ben Macpherson over many months to produce robust impact, but also a bigger responsibility. their government on a regular basis, partnerships Minister for public finance and migration evidence of football’s contribution to At this year’s UEFA Congress in with facility development the most regular The UEFA Grow strategic framework, our communities and society.” Amsterdam, the UEFA president called for topic. Almost 80% of national associations Football Federations of the Future, has the Grow social return on investment football at the grassroots and professional European football to prioritise purpose are in receipt of national funding, positioned public affairs as a critical (SROI) model has been an important level. Assessing the associations strong A way forward over profit. It would be easy to think while 50% also receive local/regional business function, and a range of support dimension of public affairs work. Countries relations with the government, CEO Ian In these very uncertain times, where purely of professional football in this government funding and 45% also receive is already being provided to the national that can demonstrate with scientific Maxwell says: “Our recent application of football, like all other sports and regard, but purpose is at the core of all EU funding. football associations of Albania, Latvia, evidence the impact of amateur football the Grow SROI model has led to meetings entertainment, has had to adapt to the sport. Why do football associations exist? On the face of it these are encouraging Moldova, , Poland, in society begin their public affairs work with senior government officials regarding needs for social distancing at a global What is their purpose? And how true do numbers, but drilling a little deeper Scotland, Slovenia and Wales. Public affairs from a strong and convincing position. a variety of portfolios, not just at national level, there is an opportunity to reflect on they remain to that purpose? uncovers major opportunities and threats. specialists conduct stakeholder mapping, The Scottish FA (SFA) has enjoyed association level, but our regions and the impact that football has in society. In Most football associations are clear on Most national associations rely completely alignment with key government policies, strong relations with the government clubs have also strengthened their its absence, its multilayered contribution their purpose; from the smallest clubs, on personal relations between senior action plans, toolkits and key messages for for many years. This has led to dedicated positions at their own regional and local to social and economic activity is perhaps leagues and affiliates, incredible work ministers for public finance and migration each association. Utilising the results of government personnel liaising with authority levels.” clearer to see. There are opportunities to reflect more deeply on how football can build stronger, healthier and more inclusive EDUCATION communities. There is time to develop OUR IMPACT SCOTLAND OUTCOMES partnerships, effect policy and solidify the role of football. Grow has conducted a UEFA-wide audit of each national association’s public affairs activity; a public INCREASING ATTENDANCE ATTENDANCE UP FROM 40% TO 93% affairs template has been produced to develop a plan with the government; REDUCING LATENESS LATENESS HAS REDUCED BY 49% and a toolkit and training are available to conduct stakeholder mapping, develop REDUCING EXCLUSIONS, BEHAVIOUR REFERRALS HAVE DECREASED key messages, and link the association’s INCREASING PARTICIPATION 52% & EXCUSIONS ARE DOWN 83% activity to government policies. Through a recent agreement with the ministry of education, the president of the Football INCREASING PARTICIPATION 100 HOURS SALTIRE AWARD Association of Moldova, Leonid BEYOND THE SCHOOL DAY FOR VOLUNTEERING Oleinicenco, has been able to introduce football into the curriculum for primary IMPROVING WELL-BEING The Spartans Community 96% ENHANCED OR SUSTAINED WELL-BEING school children. “We found that the Football Academy in government wants to work with football. delivers €6 million to the local INCREASING CLASS ENGAGEMENT 90% IMPROVED THEIR ENGAGEMENT It is confident in our ability to deliver and in Scottish FA economy annually. WITH LITERACY & NUMERACY football’s care for our children, our future.”

UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 25 26 26 to play. to and cultural habits both have arole team camps to hear how science sports We spoke to inside experts four national What’s the best way to feed afootballer? THE TECHNICIAN VICTORY EAT FOR Pressesports – UEFA May/J • DIRECT une 2020

xxxGetty Images Bruno Bellone. and Rocheteau Dominique Battiston, , Patrick Fernández, Luis left: from Clockwise 1984. EURO during mealtime at players France “ I health-conscious professional f for works it whether but centuries, three to eat”, live not than for more endured has requirements than starting outfield players players outfield starting than requirements energy have lower goalkeepers and substitutes Non-playing matches. during required as long for as effectively perform to they’re able that so to matches lead-in intake in the carbohydrate their adjust protein.” casein and whey as such them, require who to players available made supplements some are there but camps in to nutrition approach food-first a We follow camps. during requirements energy their meeting are players that ensure to inorder meal of each composition the to evaluate Evans, Mark Dr nutritionist, aperformance “We’ve used begins: Horan team. national of Ireland Republic of the feeding to the given attention and care the highlights who of Ireland, the at research and science of football head Dan Horan, from insight this consider measurements, such of miserly. opposite very the is agame before day the on weight body of their kilo for every carbohydrate of grams seven eating be should a player that thinking scientific current the Indeed minutes. of 90 space in the sprints 40-odd to 13km cover had – never attempt or written was maxim the –for whom Miser Molière’s though, time, same the at aweek; days seven appetite their indulge point. a moot He adds: “We encourage players to to players encourage “We adds: He behind science of the illustration an For freely can footballer elite no Certainly translates as “We should eat to live and and to live eat should “We as translates which and Molière playwright century 17th- by the coined saying, French manger.” pour vivre well-known This l faut manger pour vivre et non pas pas non et vivre pour faut manger to settle their nerves... their settle to Guinness drink to told were players when time the to a contrast –quite plans dietary personalised have 2016) EURO at here pictured Brady (Robbie players Ireland of Republic days, These ootballers is is ootballers

during camps.” thisintake to reflect needs food their that aware they’re players and outfield starting energy requirements than and goalkeepers have lower substitutes “Non-playing FAI head of football science and research and science football of head FAI Horan Dan mealtime “because there are three or or three are there “because mealtime to every course main avegetarian added base.” our is This airlines. and hotels different the [orders] with discussing we’re for whenever We’vethat. alist got like things or any allergies intolerant, glucose- lactose-intolerant, are they – if eat can’t they foods what eat, can they foods what at look we player every “With performance coordinator, elaborates: and medical squad’s the Reese, Dale preferences. their to explain them allowing get-together, of every ahead a questionnaire receives player each of Sweden, case the In to eat. wish players foods which ascertain is to anychef such step for first obvious An Vegetarians welcome in Sweden players.”the for interesting more make and them meals to the touch make aspecial will sure to give chef the so and boring is nutrition sports “You says: that He aware side. have to be of Croatia’s national doctor Bahtijarević, to Zoran according team, the with travels enough. eat they ensure thereby – and them to please food also yet athletes power to fuel of providing act abalancing involves and two-fold is footballers elite-level feeding of challenge the that are discussions these of Ireland. Republic the only not teams, men’s of several national representatives with discussions by UEFA Direct’s underlined as times, Different any nerves. to settle order in in Italy against quarter-final Cup World of their eve Charlton the on Jack by manager Guinness to drink told were McCarthy by Mick captained squad Ireland an 1990, since even way when long camps.” during this to reflect needs intake food their that they’re aware and This year, he adds, the Swedes have year, Swedes the This adds, he who chef of a significance the Hence from drawn impressions strong The a have we come Molière, mind Never May/June UEFA •May/June DIRECT THE TECHNICIAN

2020 2020

– 27

THE TECHNICIAN THE TECHNICIAN

four that have gone vegetarian so we into the squad for the first time, he will sit Creatures of habit Hungary’s players like A family guide want to accommodate that as well but, down for a chat with Steele, along with Judging by the teams surveyed, variety food that reminds them of home when to eating like on the other hand, to monitor them so team doctor Alan Byrne and the strength is vital yet so too a degree of routine. they are away for we know they’re getting enough of and conditioning coach. Dan Horan from In the case of Croatia’s 2018 World Cup any length of time. a champion their vitamins.” the FAI explains: “Some players are very finalists, their usual daily offering takes With the players, precise with regard to the balance of the following form according to Dr team chef David Steele will prepare carbohydrates, proteins and fats that they Bahtijarević: “We always set up a buffet so Want to eat like a champion? Eat for individual dishes for players with specific consume on different days and require the players can choose themselves what to Goals!, a cookery app endorsed by requirements, such as those following their food to be weighed and prepared eat. We’ll discreetly monitor what they’re UEFA, the World Heart Foundation a vegan diet. Whenever a player comes specifically for them.” putting on their plates and we always try and the European Commission, is one to have different possible combinations way to found out how – and with – usually one seafood dish, one chicken healthy ingredients too. Launched dish and one veal, but sometimes we in 2014, it shows youngsters, and Winning ingredients switch one of these with some risotto or their parents, how to prepare something similar. They also have a various recipes chosen by some of European Former England full-back Lee Dixon remembers the impact choice of side dishes so they can combine, football’s highest-profile players … make their own meal from what is offered. from ’s preferred of Arsène Wenger’s changes to his diet as an Arsenal player. “The players need to maintain their choice of haddock with lemon and routine,” he adds. “Our national team vegetables to ’s gratin “It would be wrong to say we had a bad diet before Arsène came, but is mostly filled with very experienced chicken with peppers, via Lotta he looked at what we were eating pre-match and it was old-school food – players coming from top European clubs. Schelin’s fresh fruit salad. , for example, always had a steak with an egg on it for his meal Nobody could tell me that Luka Modrić Eat for Goals! began life as a three or four hours before a game. The way our food was cooked was needs to be told what to eat. That’s why book of footballers’ recipes which changed and we had a lot of boiled food instead – it wouldn’t be grilled we’re following the system of minimum promoted the message that a healthy chicken with fat on or olive oil; it was a boiled chicken. This was done pretty intervention.” Getty Images and active lifestyle requires healthy much overnight. The FAI’s Dan Horan concurs. “It is very food too. Its objectives were to raise Before Arsène’s arrival, our doctor, John Crane, who was the England important for players to keep their eating awareness of obesity, inspire children doctor as well, would come into the dressing room at half-time with a full habits on international duty,” he says. to exercise and cook, and raise funds bag of jelly babies and would hand out two or three just before you went “Players usually like certain foods in the for the World Heart Federation’s out for the second half to give you energy and that sugar rush. The first time days leading up to games and feel more relaxed and confident when they have [Once] in Portugal they couldn’t provide children’s programmes. he came in when Wenger was there, I’ll never forget the boss’s face as he access to this food. The risk when players us with a pasta station as it was so far The app, in English and Spanish, looked at Doc Crane walking around with these jelly babies – he looked at move from one environment to another – from the kitchen and it made players a encourages youngsters aged from him and goes, ‘Doctor, what are you doing?’. That stopped instantly. from club to national team – is that there little bit disappointed that they had to seven upwards to ‘score a goal’ to Arsène had a nutritionist, Dr Yann Rougier, who came in and spoke can be a change in both training and scoop up the carbonara instead of getting see the recipes from 11 featured to us about what sort of nutrition would be good for you and which “Our players all come from nutrition. It is easier to keep the nutrition it personally done. It’s amazing how they players. It provides facts about food vitamins. There was a whole table full of tablets and nutrition and vitamin outside Sweden and when side of things constant and players settle react to just small things. It’s a little bit and step-by-step instructions which supplements available to us, and every morning before training you were we have our gatherings they into camps quicker when their nutrition extra work but those small things really should allow even novice cooks to encouraged to walk along and take a tablet out of each pot – one would needs are well met. The use of stir-fry make a big difference.” make healthy meals. Older football be vitamin C, one would be vitamin D, etc. Dr Rougier also educated us on want as much as Swedish stations and build-your-own salad bars fans might enjoy it too – after all, the importance of how to chew your food, which we all found amusing but food as possible. It makes allows players to make their own meals. Home cooking it is interesting to see just what it made a lot of sense when you broke it down as to how the body the players crazy happy.” This sense of autonomy helps players to A taste of home matters too. In the the game’s biggest names like on goes through processing food – chewing each mouthful 10 to relax in camps.” 1970s, supporters of Hamburger SV sent their plates. For the curious, here 15 times to make sure the food was processed in your mouth Dale Reese It seems the importance of routine , their forward, boxes are a few of their choices: spaghetti before it went down into your stomach, which helped you Sweden national team medical cannot be overstated. In his book I Think of Shredded Wheat after he admitted in all’Arrabbiata with tuna and process that food and get the nutrients into your body a and performance coordinator Therefore I Play, former Italy an interview how much he was missing vegetables (); crunchy little bit quicker. Andrea Pirlo likens the monotonous his favourite breakfast cereal. During cod with herbs (Steven Gerrard); As a group, we were quite famous for liking a drink in the efficiency of his ex-AC colleague Argentina’s World Cup campaigns of 1986 seafood risotto (Mikel Arteta); early years, and Arsène was very much against alcohol – ’s goalscoring with his and 1990, meanwhile, ’s Brazilian black bean stew (Kaká); the odd glass of wine here and there, after a game, was equally monotonous eating habits: packet father, Don Diego, would provide the and Cuban rice (Samuel Eto’o). fine but the thought of drinking something during the upon packet of plasmon biscuits and, for squad with regular asados – or Argentinian week, why would you do that? So that was discouraged lunch and dinner, the same dish of “plain barbecues. The same need exists today. too. We had a lot of players who were 31, 32, and he told pasta with a little bit of tomato sauce and When the Republic of Ireland travelled to us we could get another three or four years out of our cured beef”. France for EURO 2016, for example, they bodies if we looked after them. I thought, ‘Right, I’m in’ as I Dale Reese offers an example from took with them a selection of food from wanted to pay till I was 38 and I felt brilliant playing with him. within the Sweden camp of the impact home, including porridge (4kg), baked I was 32 when he came and from then I was probably the of even a minor disruption to a popular beans (5kg), sugar-free peanut and fittest I’d ever been. , an old rival at Manchester routine. He explains: “We usually want a almond butter (5kg) and Barry’s tea bags. United, still talks about our 1998 double-winning team and pasta station [where] one of chefs stands “We try to provide meals that players how good we were and how fit we were.It opened up a lot and makes pasta while we’re waiting. It’s are used to,” says Dan Horan. “We used UEFA of people’s eyes to the potential of nutrition.” UEFA via Getty Images usually carbonara and the guys love it. Bord Bia [the Irish Food Board] for EURO

UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 29 Getty Images THE TECHNICIAN THE TECHNICIAN

2012 to import fresh Irish meat to Poland Planning ahead Each country has its own way of The science of sports nutrition via Germany. Players respond well to No team wants to suffer the loss of a working. István Bodnár stresses these ‘home comforts’ and it encourages player to food poisoning, as happened, the importance of only using fresh players to eat the volumes of foods that for instance, to England goalkeeper ingredients – never anything frozen Asker Jeukendrup is a professor of exercise metabolism at are required to prepare for the intensities at the 1970 World Cup in – when feeding his Hungary players. Loughborough University in England and acts as a performance of international football.” . A bottle of beer drunk at dinner Sweden dispatch one of their two chefs ALEX CAPARROS ALEX consultant to Barcelona, RB Salzburg and PSV Eindhoven. This is not just the case at tournaments, the night before the quarter-final against a day in advance when leaving for their but at any international get-together, left him doubled up with tournament base. Meanwhile, a three- particularly involving players who play stomach cramps. England, with Peter strong Republic of Ireland delegation, their club football elsewhere. “Many of Bonetti in goal, lost the match 3-2, having including Dan Horan, chef Steele and What is today’s scientific so for an 80kg player that is 500 or of time to digest it. You want our players play abroad so they have a led 2-0 – an outcome that led Banks to team doctor Byrne visited the team’s thinking regarding nutrition 600 grams of carbohydrate, and something easily digestible, as if it’s a wish for some Hungarian flavours,” says later claim his drink had been spiked. EURO 2016 hotel twice ahead of that for footballers? that’s quite a lot. steak then that steak would definitely national team chef István Bodnár, albeit When it comes to a major tournament, tournament “to build relationships with The studies show it is not just still be sitting in your stomach during acknowledging this presents him with a therefore, good cooperation with staff the management and kitchen staff”, as putting fuel in the body that’s And the day of the game? the match. You want a pasta or rice test of his skills given the base of several at the team hotel is essential. Zoran Horan explains. He adds: “Our policy important, but also that with When you wake up in the morning, dish that is fully absorbed, so by the popular dishes in Hungary is rántás, a Bahtijarević explains how Croatia have is to have meals ready for the players the right fuels you can improve your brain has been using glucose time of the match all of that energy is sauce made by browning flour in oil. ensured a smooth process in the past. ten minutes before the official meal coordination skills, timing, decision- overnight. This is stored in your now stored in the muscle. “For such food we apply cornstarch instead “As we’re dealing directly with the hotels time and that means that hotel staff making – all those factors that are liver, which is the only place that can and balance the different flavour with where we’re based, we give them the need to understand the importance really important in football. Good deliver carbohydrate to the brain How important is food intake seasoning. We get the same taste but menus we set and they cooperate with of timing and room preparation. The coordination starts in the brain, after a match for recovery? the food is prepared in a healthy way.” their local suppliers to get all they need to dining and snack rooms for players and so what do we need for optimal If a player has another match three The wish for the familiar taste of some prepare everything that’s on the menus. staff are very important areas during a brain function and is there anything days later, then they would want to home favourites is tempered by the task at We always expect high-quality groceries tournament because they spend so much we can do with nutrition to start eating again immediately hand too, Bodnár adds. “On day one, the and our chef on site is always checking time there.” Albeit with less Guinness optimise that brain function? after the match. We are meal is less strict and as we get closer to that everything goes as planned.” these days. Carbohydrates, which you looking at between 70 and the match, it gets more and more healthy. also need as fuel for the 90 grams of carbohydrates, We have more and more grilled food, muscles, and caffeine which is a fair amount, prepared with plant-based ingredients.” are two things which especially as it’s not that Dale Reese observes similar cravings “Our national team is mostly filled with very will affect the brain. easy to eat immediately among the Sweden squad: “Our players experienced players coming from top European Caffeine can also have after a match for all come from outside Sweden and when clubs. Nobody could tell me that Luka Modrić negative effects, most players. There we have our gatherings they want as depending on the are other solutions, much as Swedish food as possible. needs to be told what to eat. That’s why we’re dosing – if you have like shakes with It makes the players crazy happy.” One following the system of minimum intervention.” the right dose, you carbohydrate and favourite is beef Rydberg, a meat dish get really improved protein. eaten with Swedish lingonberries. Dr Zoran Bahtijarević alertness and During the World Cup in Russia, though, Croatia’s national team doctor cognitive functioning; And finally, how a problem arose with sourcing these if you have too much, about treats – like berries. “We weren’t allowed to import you become anxious something sweet them,” Reese says, which meant no and your heart rate goes or a glass of wine lingonberries at their base in Gelendzhik up too much. or beer? on the Black Sea. “You should have seen In the recovery period how glad the players were when we got Looking at the lead-up especially, sugar is a to St Petersburg [for the round of 16] and to a match, what should perfect way to replenish your there we could get lingonberries. They a footballer be eating the glycogen quickly, so it would had their lingonberries and that made day before? fit in fairly well with aggressive their day.” It really is about making sure the refuelling. The problem with cakes This is not to say that footballers are energy stores in the muscles are full, is they contain a lot of fat and energy never allowed to sample new dishes. so 24 hours before you have to make that maybe you don’t necessarily Reese adds: “As long as our chef agrees sure you eat enough carbohydrates. when sleeping. When you wake up, need. Footballers still sometimes have it’s well done and it’s good, then yes, with It doesn’t matter what the source is therefore, the liver doesn’t have a little bit of a struggle to maintain some of the dinners that aren’t the day – pasta, rice, potato or bread are all much glycogen any more, so you’ll their body weight, so in that respect I before or the day after a match, one of good. Once digested, it is just glucose need a breakfast that delivers enough would be careful. Alcohol is okay if it the main dishes will be a local dish that and the glucose will be stored. carbohydrate to replenish what was is occasional, but beer and wine have our chef approves, so yes we want them One thing about footballers is they there – a decent breakfast with a focus quite a lot of calories – almost twice to try. The Russians, for example, made us almost always underestimate how on carbohydrates. I’d be looking for as many as carbohydrates or sugar. a marvellous pressed apple juice that they much they have to eat. The day around 100 grams. Whether it’s an One or two glasses now and then is combined with sparkling water and the before, typically you’d be looking afternoon or evening match, I’d then not going to be a problem, but binge guys just loved it. I don’t know how many at eating around seven grams per suggest eating the main meal three drinking is because that really affects litres went down!” Getty Images kilogram of your body weight, hours before kick-off, giving plenty recovery as well.

30 – UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 31 MEDICINE MATTERS Jan Tauber/FACR EXTRA TIME

The growth of veterans’ football across Europe is bringing more opportunities for older players to keep playing the game they love, according to a new survey.

here comes a time for every football The survey’s findings point to a rising player, whatever their level of number of participants in older age T ability, to hang up their boots. categories, which should mean an Fortunately there are now more accompanying climb in national and possibilities than ever to carry on playing international veterans’ competitions. the game thanks to the growth of Although there are currently few veterans’ football across Europe. established league structures in place, Whether it be ex-pros, amateurs or at least four countries do run national park players, the vets’ game is becoming league competitions: Belgium, Denmark, an increasingly popular option for men Finland and Germany. Graf and Meyer’s The health benefits of – and, to a lesser extent, women – report foresees a virtuous circle whereby low-intensity football (as being played here between the ages of 30 and 70 in a more competitions will mean more in the Czech Republic) number of UEFA-affiliated nations. registered players and clubs – and, in are immeasurable. Denmark leads the way for the highest turn, an increased focus on fitness, gains ground participation ratio, with 4% of the with football providing a platform to population actively playing veterans’ promote better cardiovascular health Walking football is a different football according to a continent-wide and physical well-being among older intensity levels achievable by a 50-year-old The survey found that sessions run on and to engage local football clubs to game altogether, designed survey undertaken by Vivian Graf, a population groups. and a 70-year-old can differ considerably. To average for between 60 and 120 minutes start offering it, too. for participants aged 50–70+ medical student at Imperial College “For veteran football players, the minimise the risk of injury, and provide more and mainly involve match play and It is perhaps no surprise that veterans’ with a specific set of rules: and supervised by Dr Tim Meyer, game is about the social aspect,” said equal competition, the authors recommend practising game-related situations such as football is thriving most in countries games are played on a smaller the new chairman of the UEFA Medical Jorrit Smit, advisor on adult football at that having more narrow age categories is corners. Crucially, there tends to be little with well-organised amateur and pitch with a maximum of seven Committee. In Germany too, the numbers the Royal Dutch Football Federation “the more logical approach”, though this is fitness work and the absence of warm-ups professional set-ups – such as Denmark, players on each side, and are impressive, with 1.8 million of the 82 (KNVB), who is quoted in the report. more difficult in countries with lower and cool-downs was a particular concern England, Germany and Sweden, which physical contact of any kind million population (or 2.2%) actively “However, the demand for competition participation rates such as Slovenia, where for the researchers. have high participation rates across is prohibited, as are running registered as players. Reflecting the will increase, so we will see what the competitive over-age football is limited to They write: “[Warm-ups] do not only the board. or jogging. opportunities for female as well as male future holds.” just over-30s and over-40s. increase blood flow to working muscles The researchers found a “positive The health benefits for players in Germany, there are women’s There is particular praise for two Nordic around the body for preparation, but also attitude” also in countries such as the the older generation have veterans’ tournaments in the over-32, countries – Denmark and Finland – for the Areas of concern decrease the risk of many different types Netherlands, Russia and Slovenia, been clearly noticed by over-35 (for example, the Cup) provision of decade-by-decade age-bracket Veterans’ football across Europe involves of sports injuries, which older athletes where efforts are being made, first many associations, with the and over-40 age brackets. football right up 70, noting that the varying regulations to minimise the risk of are more prone to anyway. A cool-down and foremost, to develop the over-age opportunity to meet people injury, including smaller pitch sizes. The should also definitely be included as it game through leagues and local clubs. and socialise helping create match duration is reduced in all countries – helps to gradually decrease heart rate and In Russia, for instance, there are a positive mindset among ranging from 20 to 30 minutes per half – also prevent sudden pooling of blood in tournaments split into age groups – participants. Walking football As in the case of Lithuania, while countries such as Denmark and lower limbs, causing dizziness and possibly the Eternal Stars Cup and the Legends has developed considerably veterans‘ football is Slovenia offer a game with fewer players fainting, which can cause further injuries.” Cup – with varying rules for players in the past decade and is now not just for men. on each side (between five and nine). of different ages. Hungary, another played competitively across Tackling is restricted in some countries. What happens next country cited, has introduced a veterans’ Europe; the fact that it is Given these variations across the continent, The view of Andy Dyke, the English football season. played at a lower intensity the authors call for a set of rules to be Football Association’s national There is also a wish to develop than veterans’ football means introduced Europe-wide to encourage development manager, is that “veterans’ international competitions, with the fewer concerns about potential more international competitions. football is an area of growth where we are authors noting “an ongoing goal of health risks, with a reduced They also call for “significant alterations” likely to see more diversification as people more internationalism by augmenting threat of cardiovascular to training routines among older players. become more comfortable with the game competition and travelling abroad”. incidents, and this is another In all the countries that participated in the format”. Indeed, the English FA already has One such example, involving Slovenia, factor in its rapid growth. survey, training is never more than twice a successful veterans’ football programmes, is the ‘third-age’ tournaments already However, older athletes week at veterans’ level – and rarely split by which it has begun expanding into Spain, organised in the Balkans – in Bosnia wanting to boost their age bracket, with players from 35 to 70 all Belgium and other European countries as and Herzegovina and Croatia, as well as endurance and football-specific potentially training together. In some an ‘expat programme’ to encourage the Slovenia – which provide opportunities fitness might have to add countries, there is no regular training at all. participation of English speakers abroad, for international encounters. other drills. LFF SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY ASSIST PROGRAMME

TEN YEARS OF SUCCESS FOR DISABILITY PARTNERSHIP At the end of last year, UEFA and the Centre for Access to Football in Europe (CAFE) celebrated the tenth anniversary of their partnership and measured the progress made during those ten years to improve access to football for disabled fans. ABFF

AFE was set up in 2009, funded by European standards, and is a valuable tool oversee the implementation of this role UEFA, to offer advice on increasing for any national association or club. and together the two organisations have C access to football for disabled so far provided training to more than 850 people, improving stadium infrastructures Audio-descriptive commentary people across 25 member associations. TAJIKISTAN AND UZBEKISTAN and raising awareness around inclusion (ADC) training In January 2019, the first meeting of the within the game. ADC is a dedicated service that can help disability access officer network group Live football is now enjoyed by more partially sighted and blind fans to enjoy was held in Barcelona, attended by 30 YOUNGSTERS SAVOUR EUROPEAN disabled supporters than ever. Clubs, an inclusive matchday. In the context of a specialists from national associations, leagues and national associations are live football match, ADC ensures partially clubs, disability NGOs and disabled increasingly aware of the importance sighted or blind fans have a complete fan groups. TOURNAMENT EXPERIENCE of access and inclusion, and governing understanding of the match they are bodies have outlined their commitment attending. UEFA has worked alongside Establishing disabled supporter to a game that is accessible, inclusive CAFE for a number of years to provide associations The UEFA Assist programme, aimed at nurturing football development outside and welcoming for all. ADC at UEFA Champions League and Nearly 200 dedicated club and national of Europe, helped two Central Asian nations compete in a youth tournament in UEFA Europa League finals, as well as at team disabled supporter associations have Accessible seating all EURO 2012 and EURO 2016 matches. been established across Europe, providing Belarus in February. The creation and development of It will be provided again at EURO 2020. a ready-made community for disabled accessible seating, not just in greater Since 2009, more than 150 people have fans, as well as a forum to liaise with numbers but also in better locations with been trained in producing high-quality organisations to improve services and he international youth tournament, Players experiencing improved sightlines inside stadiums, has ADC coverage at matches. facilities and discuss ongoing issues. the Development Cup, has become different cultures been a key focus for the partnership. This dialogue helps clubs and national Tsomething of a tradition in Belarus, The invitations to Tajikistan and Uzbekistan CAFE has carried out more than 90 access Developing the disability associations better understand the needs with the 16th edition of the tournament gave their respective Under-17 teams the perfect appraisals of venues across Europe and access officer role and challenges facing their disabled held in Minsk in February. opportunity to play against countries from a beyond to help improve access, using Since 2015, the disability access officer supporters as they work towards Organised by the Football Federation different continent. However, this was also the UEFA and CAFE Good Practice Guide role has been incorporated into the UEFA providing total access for all. of Belarus (ABFF), the event for Under-17 the case for a number of the European sides – to Creating an Accessible Stadium and Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play national sides attracted six teams from across a chance they greatly appreciated. Matchday Experience (Access for All) Regulations, ensuring that clubs across CAFE’s activities in 2020 Europe – from Iceland to Israel – as well as “It’s a different culture and a good experience as a benchmark. The guide sets out the the continent support the provision of During the CAFE week of action, held Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. for the players; we can always play Finland, minimum accessibility requirements for inclusive, accessible facilities and services. from 7 to 15 March, the work taking The ABFF was able to invite the two Sweden or Norway, whose culture is similar to new and existing stadiums, based on CAFE was commissioned by UEFA to place across Europe to improve access Central Asian countries to participate thanks ours,” explained David Snorri Jonasson, the and inclusion in stadiums was celebrated. to the support of the UEFA Assist head coach of Iceland’s Under-17 team. UEFA and CAFE combined forces to create programme. Although the initiative mainly “This tournament is very useful for the players a new video highlighting the crucial work assists associations outside of Europe through as they can test their skills against teams from Children with Down's syndrome were invited undertaken to help more disabled fans the sharing of knowledge and best practices, different cultures. It is very important for us, as ABFF to accompany the players attend live football matches. The video it also allows UEFA’s member associations to most of the players from Iceland will aim to play onto the pitch ahead spread on social media, and different develop their own projects with football abroad in the future.” of the match between Above: The young Dinamo Zagreb and Istra clubs all over Europe showed it before associations in different confederations. ABFF president Uladzimir Bazanau was just Belarusians celebrate 1961 on 8 March. or after their matches. In April, CAFE “UEFA aims to work as much as possible delighted that the countries competing were their hard-earned GNK Dinamo Zagreb launched a survey to gain a better in the development of football, and I feel it all able to take home several positives from the tournament victory. Top: Belarus came back understanding of the typical matchday is our duty to assist other confederations tournament, which is important for the further from a 2-0 deficit to beat experiences of people with non-visible and their member associations by sharing development of the players. Tajikistan in the final. disabilities and address some of the issues our experience, expertise and knowledge “It is great that such teams as Finland and they encounter in attending live football so they can reach their goals,” said UEFA Belgium participated in this tournament for the matches. The survey is open until 18:00 president Aleksander Čeferin. tenth time,” he said. “I would like to thank CET on 15 May and can be found on the “We are looking forward to helping them Belarus and Tajikistan for a great final, and I CAFE website: https://www.cafefootball. grow football in their continents and also to would like to say thank you to our partners, eu/news/cafe-launches-survey-for-non- participating in the development of the game the Development Bank of the Republic of visibly-disabled-people. outside Europe.” Belarus and the UEFA Assist programme.”

32 – UEFA DIRECT • March/April 2020 UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 35 CONFEDERATIONS DENMARK

DIVERSITY IN NUMBERS For the first time ever, a Danish sport can offer a specific quantitative estimate with regard to diversity. More than 8,000 active participants in Danish football responded to a questionnaire about everything from everyday life in a club to gender, ethnicity and sexuality.

BY SIGNE ULLSTAD

layers, coaches and referees were just we have more work to do. But I am ethnic Dane on the pitch. However, there NEW MEMORANDUM some of the 8,000 respondents from pleased to see that 91% of those involved are also some positive numbers to come P all levels of Danish football who in Danish football very much have the out of the questionnaire. Alongside the answered an extensive questionnaire about feeling that there is room for everyone, so fact that a high percentage of club OF UNDERSTANDING diversity. The questionnaire was sent to all we are very satisfied with the results,” the members believe there is room for participants in Danish football, including DBU president said. everyone in the club, as many as 93% the 1,611 clubs, regardless of age, level say they are treated well in their club. FOR UEFA AND and geography. Room for improvement The DBU president believes there has The impartial questionnaire was Many results can be drawn from the been improvement in Danish football but compiled by the analysis company Kantar diversity questionnaire, including the that there is still work to do. CONMEBOL Gallup for the Danish Football Association experiences of referees, players and club “It is essential that we work together (DBU) at the request of the association’s members on how it feels to be part of to strengthen diversity in Danish football president, Jesper Møller Christensen, who Danish football. The results indicate that for everyone’s benefit,” Jesper Møller The UEFA Executive Committee and the CONMEBOL was proud to present the results. 74% of girls and women believe it is easier Christensen concluded. “Football is for everybody and, to be a boy or man in football, 44% of gay The results will now be discussed Council met at the House of European Football in therefore, we wanted to get an overview people experience discriminating language in Danish football, and the DBU will then in February and signed a renewed memorandum of the reality in Danish football. The results in the football environment, and 48% of present initiatives for a more diverse of understanding (MoU) to replace the agreement are now ready, and there is no doubt that immigrants believe it is easier to be an Danish football community. signed in 2012. UEFA

his new MoU forms the basis for on the following matters: competitions, The presidents of CONMEBOL and enhanced collaboration in a variety development, women’s football and refereeing. UEFA, Alejandro Domínguez and Aleksander Čeferin, in Nyon on Tof domains to foster the development Ad hoc commissions could also be formed 12 February 2020. and growth of football on both continents. to discuss other areas of cooperation when The MoU aims to provide assistance and necessary. support between UEFA and CONMEBOL Speaking after the meeting, UEFA president and their respective member associations Aleksander Čeferin said: “UEFA and in establishing and implementing projects CONMEBOL have a long history and tradition and activities relating to: together, notably through epic and thrilling • Education, training, technical development competitions such as the and refereeing Trophy and the European/South American • Promotion and development of grassroots, Cup. Today's agreement marks a first step youth and women's football in allowing UEFA and CONMEBOL to closely • Organisation of men's, women's cooperate so that we can share expertise and and youth football competitions, knowledge for the development of the game as well as futsal on both continents.” • Marketing, legal and social responsibility CONMEBOL president Alejandro Domínguez, matters added: “We had been working for months on • Safety and security this in order to have a very constructive and • Promotion of ethical and good governance fruitful meeting today, and I am delighted that principles in football CONMEBOL and UEFA agreed to cooperate further on a variety of topics. Together we can In order to advance cooperation on such do a lot for the development of football and I projects, both governing bodies decided to am very much looking forward to this enhanced DBU create four joint committees to focus specifically collaboration. This is just the beginning.”

36 – UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 37 LFV PROJECT CHILD SAFEGUARDING W 38 –UEFA • DIRECT BANZER BY ANTON LIECHTENSTEIN the project willhelpprotect coaches awareness andself-confidence.” difficult situationsappropriately, with people torecognise anddealwith we canenablechildren andyoung of Liechtenstein.“Intheworld sport, member, HSHPrincessMaria-Anunciata the project’s patron andLOCboard spirit sportcanbringtoachild,”explains much pleasure, self-discipline andteam to respond. to raiseawareness andbeequipped neglect, andalcoholdrugabuse, violence, grooming, sexual abuse, address varioustopics,such asbullying, associations andclubsachanceto LFV andtheLOCplantogiveallsports to promote childsafeguarding inLiechtensteinsport. Liechtenstein OlympicCommittee(LOC)are joiningforces The LiechtensteinFootballAssociation(LFV)andthe As wellasempoweringchildren, “I knowfrom personalexperience how young peopleinsport’,the ‘Empowering children and ith aproject entitled May/June The partners in the child safeguarding project (left to right): LOC president president LOC right): to (left project safeguarding child the in partners The Maria-Anunciata of Liechtenstein, and LFV president Hugo Quaderer. Quaderer. Hugo president LFV and Liechtenstein, of Maria-Anunciata 2 020 Isabel Fehr, LFV general secretary Peter Jehle, patron HSH Princess Princess HSH patron Jehle, Peter secretary general LFV Fehr, Isabel devoted toaddressing bullyinginsport. with ahighlyacclaimedlaunchevent impact inandbeyondtheworld ofsport. in abidtoproduce apositivelong-term the varioustopicswillbestudied closely adapted tothesituationinLiechtenstein. protection measures insportthatare networks willbeusedtodevelopchild Existing nationalandinternational two organisations’future cooperation. emphasised theimportanceoftheir LFV president HugoQuaderer haveboth awareness. LOCpresident IsabelFehrand preventive measures andraising and associationsbyencouraging many volunteerswhoworkforclubs people. Itwilltherefore safeguard the in theirdealingswithchildren andyoung what ispermissibleandimportant and officials inparticular, byclarifying The project kickedoff on25January To thisend,betweennowand2024,

president. LFV the said Liechtenstein,” in football of development the for vital is HatTrick programme infrastructure. including game, the of aspects all toimprove them enabling UEFA’s associations, 55 member in Championship Football European the from revenue reinvests which programme, UEFA’s from HatTrickfunding partial with construction under still is which Ruggell, in centre training national the and Schaan in offices LFV’s the ahead.” future abright has country the Ithink and support, their giving are government and municipalities the that great It’s Liechtenstein. in football of organisation and infrastructure the by impressed I’m very say “And Imust UEFA president. the said countries,” smaller the visit of Liechtenstein. Alois Prince HSH by hosted Vaduz castle at areception attended and Vaduz, of mayor the Bischof, Manfred and minister, sports Liechtenstein’s Risch, Daniel achievements. and work its as well as Switzerland), and Austria between lies and inhabitants around 38,000 has principality (the countries member UEFA’sof smallest one by faced challenges the about briefed was he Jehle, Peter secretary general and president, Hugo Quaderer, there. football of growth the welcomed 27 January, Čeferin Aleksander on UEFApresident as time first the for Liechtenstein Visiting visit UEFA president’s “Funding from the UEFA the from “Funding visited UEFA president The to me for important very “It’s met also UEFA president The LFV the with talks During

LFV/Eddy Risch “ POLISH FOOTBALLPOLISH IN LIBRARY THE NEW OF REPLAY YOUR MEMORIES T BY RAFAŁ BYRSKI RAFAŁ BY ,thePZPNpresident. fun factsandnewspaperclippings,”said Polish nationalteammatches,highlights, football. We havethemostimportant wonderful –anencyclopaediaofPolish and quietlyinorder tocreate something Football Association].We workedlong starting from the idea and ending up up ending and idea the from starting – scratch from developed to be had project to follow, entire the so nobody was there why is That country. their in of football history the telling resource multimedia acomprehensive such has in Europe. Nobody unique is “Our project library. complete and abroad such boast quarter-finals. 2016 EURO to up the for them lasted adventure That past. of the triumphs the rekindle could they believed generation Glik and Krychowiak Lewandowski, the stadium, national the at evening October that On team. his and Nawałka by Adam Germany, achieved against win first-ever Poland’s is there generations, younger the For past. of the taste unforgettable 1982 in the Cup. World Peru An against match of Poland’s half second in the scored team Piechniczek’s Antoni that goals five the and world, inthe place third to Eagles Górski Kazimierz of the march the in1973 Wembley at draw started that ‘winning’ the accompanied that emotions and feelings the relive can generations the generations together. older The bring that watch, games should everyone that matches team national Polish the classics, the with starts football Polish of chargeandrelive alltheteam’s matches,highlightsandmuch,muchmore. opened itsvirtualdoorson16October. Fansofthenationalteamcanuselibraryfree After yearsofarduous collectingandarchiving work,theonlinelibraryofPolishfootball No European football association can can association football European No of library the library, film Like any good carried outbythePZPN[Polish of thebestfootball-related projects he libraryofPolishfootballisone

the PZPN general secretary. general PZPN the Sawicki, by football,”united Maciej said We are material. archive of obtaining work arduous and hard the with us helped They Kmita. Marian Szkolnikowski and Marek to directors in particular Polsat, and TVP go to thanks Many product. final the with The library of Polish football has been been has football of Polish library The PZPN website. PZPN the to have account on an need just Users www.laczynaspilka.pl/biblioteka. at of charge free available is All collection. video and multimedia recommended chronicles, matches, from choose can They them. to suit something find fansteam can national all that so tabs into several divided UEFA DIRECT UEFA •

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– 39 RUSSIA MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS

UEFA MATCH OFFICERS’ ALBANIA www.fshf.org UEFA GIRLS’ UNDER-16 DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP TOURNAMENT On 11 and 12 February, the first of 13 regional workshops for UEFA match delegates, ALBAN TARTARI security officers, venue directors and match managers was held in . The girls’ Under-16 national teams of Albania, Georgia, Lithuania and BY EKATERINA GRISHENKOVA Montenegro participated in the UEFA girls’ Under-16 development tournament hosted by the Albanian rganised by UEFA in cooperation Football Association (FSHF) in February. with the Football Union of Russia, The visiting teams stayed and trained in Othe workshop was attended the city of Durres, while the matches by representatives of the national were played at the brand-new Air associations of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Albania Stadium in Tirana and Elbasan FSHF Belarus, Kazakhstan and Russia. Arena in the city of the same name. With On the first day, the participants the popularity of women’s football rising development of children’s and women’s Algeria, Georgia and Lithuania. This kind discussed the preparation and running of in the country, thousands of supporters football. “We are very happy to of event is a great example of what can an imaginary match from the perspective filled the stadiums, and the matches collaborate with UEFA, and this is not the be done in these categories,” he said. of the different roles and responsibilities were shown live on the national sports first tournament, nor will it be the last. The FSHF is placing special importance of a UEFA delegate, security officer and channel RTSH Sport. As UEFA believes in our organisational on women’s football, as it is one of the venue director/match manager. Separate The president of the Albanian Football capacities, we offered our best stadiums main priorities of its activities in 2020. attention was paid to crisis management Association, Armand Duka, thanked and services for this tournament. At the A series of events are scheduled (e.g. deterioration of weather conditions UEFA for entrusting the FSHF with this end of this month [February 2020], we throughout the year, with campaigns on the day of the match), in particular kind of event, which serves one of the will host a UEFA boys’ Under-16 promoting women’s football having the various sources of information and national priorities of the association – the development tournament with Albania, just started. communication between everyone concerned. The second day of the seminar began AUSTRIA www.oefb.at with a discussion of the different problems that match officers could be confronted with during the course of the season, RFS PROMOTING FUN AND GAMES such as the pitch being in poor condition or a referee being injured during the to be taken in such situations. In addition, should not be included in the delegate's SIMON-PETER CHARAMZA game, as well as the sequence of actions examples of incidents that should and post-match report were analysed. Exceptional situations call Videos by experts provide detailed with Ballschule Heidelberg aimed at for exceptional measures! instructions on how to organise the helping teachers and coaches plan and This is a sentiment we are becoming games and exercises, giving all parents deliver inventive classes and training increasingly familiar with in these and carers the tips they need to take on sessions with the aid of professional 's contract extended unprecedented times. It is up to us all to the role of coach. video-based guides. do whatever we can to deal with our The content is not specific to football; The idea was to provide children with The Football Union of Russia has “The contracts of our coaching staff current circumstances as best we can. it promotes physical exercise and ball an inspiring and effective basic extended its contract with the with the Football Union of Russia Ballschule Österreich, a free app sports in general, in a fun and playful education in different ball sports and head coach of Russia's national provided for an automatic two-year developed by Geomix, is a good place way. help them discover the lasting joy of team, Stanislav Cherchesov, until extension after the Russian team to start. After several years of development, physical exercise and team sports. 30 December 2022. qualified for the EUROs. But because With schools closed, many parents the app was launched in autumn 2018 In the current circumstances, it is Cherchesov's team reached the the 2022 World Cup will not take and carers are faced with the challenge by Austria’s three general sports hoped the app can be used to share the quarter-finals of the 2018 World Cup place in summer 2022 as previously of looking after children at home and governing bodies (ASKÖ, ASVÖ and joy of sport even further and wider and and also qualified for EURO 2020, planned, but in November and keeping them occupied all day long in Sportunion) and six national ball sport help families spend their time at home which has been postponed until 2021. December, the change of contract the house and, if they are lucky, garden. associations (handball, basketball, in a meaningful, active and playful way, Together with Cherchesov, Russia will end dates was a technicality. The With this in mind, the Ballschule , volleyball, American football and with a wide variety of physical exercises fight for the right to play at the 2022 relevant adjustments have been Österreich app (which literally translates football), under the coordination of the and games, all based around the motto World Cup, and his contract may be made, and we are very pleased to as Austrian ball school) was updated in Austrian Football Association. ‘Stay home, stay fit’. extended until 31 July 2024 if they continue our work in the team,” March to include a host of special games With a view to promoting ball sport Geomix’s Ballschule Österreich app is RFS qualify and overcome the group stage. Cherchesov said. and exercises that are easy to play in the education in Austria, the app was available to download free of charge living room or garden. originally designed as part of a project from Google Play and the App Store.

40 – UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 41 MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS

CROATIA www.hns-cff.hr ENGLAND www.thefa.com VATRENI SUPPORT CROATIA IN OVERCOMING ENGLAND CAPTAINS LAUNCH EARTHQUAKES AND AN EPIDEMIC PLEDGE OF POSITIVITY

NIKA BAHTIJAREVIĆ NICK SMITH

The Croatian national team’s kunas (€526,000) (The FA) England men’s captain , The FA March matches may have been for earthquake and has launched the Pledge of a father of two, said: “As parents and and Harry Kane cancelled due to the coronavirus coronavirus relief. Positivity, which asks parents spectators, it is our job to make sure pandemic, but the Vatreni were To urge Croatians and spectators involved in Under-18s that children enjoy playing football. The that kids play better in a positive nevertheless brought together by a joint to comply with grassroots football to commit to creating pitch should be a place of support and environment and our research has cause: helping their fellow citizens in health experts’ a more positive environment at matches encouragement. Youngsters should never confirmed this impacts 90% of players. an unprecedented time of need. recommendations across the country. feel pressure or intimidation from the It’s crucial that we create an atmosphere With all of Europe in the midst of during the pandemic, A recent survey conducted by The FA sidelines, so I’m delighted to add my where players are encouraged rather than battling the COVID-19 pandemic, the Croatian Football and Nielsen found that 88% of more name to the Pledge of Positivity, and I’d abused, for their enjoyment of football as Croatia’s capital city suffered an Federation also than 1,000 grassroots participants cite like to encourage as many people as well as their mental health. I urge others additional blow. In the early hours produced a video parents as a driver of disrespect in possible to do the same.” to join me in making this pledge and of 22 March, Zagreb was hit by three featuring head coach grassroots football. The Lionesses’ captian, Steph showing their support for kids’ football.” consecutive earthquakes, the first of HNS Zlatko Dalić and all of To have an impact on this off-pitch Houghton, added: “Positivity is essential The FA’s Respect campaign was which caused major damage to buildings the players that had behaviour, The FA has launched the in football. It’s important to create an relaunched ahead of the 2018/19 season in the city centre and devastated many Croatia’s football clubs and the Vatreni been set to travel with the team for the Pledge of Positivity, encouraging those environment where everyone enjoys (having been originally launched in the of the city’s hospitals, leaving the health were among the first to voice their March friendlies. Their message? on the sidelines to support all players playing. There are small things you can do 2008/09 season) with a new mantra of system additionally vulnerable at a time support for the citizens of Zagreb, Together we can beat this virus – but involved and respect referees, coaches on the touchline – like applauding good We Only Do Positive. As a result, The FA when its limits were already being tested and the national team players did not only if every single one of us takes and other spectators. The pledge is based play from both teams – that has a big has seen positivity in grassroots football by an influx of patients infected with stop at words alone – in the following responsibility and plays our part by on The FA’s Respect behavioural code impact on young players.” rise, with 88% of tracked U12-U18 the novel coronavirus. days, they raised four million Croatian staying at home. of conduct, which seeks to improve The FA’s chief executive, Mark matches being played in a positive behavioural standards in football. Bullingham, said, “Having coached environment, a 2% increase from the England captains Steph Houghton grassroots football for the last five years, previous season. The FA hopes that CZECH REPUBLIC www.fotbal.cz and Harry Kane are the first two people I’ve seen first-hand the huge impact the Pledge of Positivity will ensure to have made the Pledge of Positivity, that parents on the sidelines can have that number continues to rise. football clubs as a helpful resource for encouraging others to follow suit at on players from both a positive and Make your pledge at GUIDELINES FOR HELPING the coaches of youth teams. In 2019, www.TheFA.com/Pledge. negative point of view. It’s no surprise www.TheFA.com/Pledge. it received a UEFA Foundation for Children CHILDREN IN DISTRESS Award with a grant of €45,500. However, other sports associations ESTONIA www.jalgpall.ee RADEK ŠAMŠA in the Czech Republic also found the handbook useful and approached the Czech Football Association and Safety Line 100 YEARS SINCE FIRST INTERNATIONAL about extending it to other sports, such as basketball and ice hockey. MATCH “Sometimes a coach, not a parent, MAARJA SAULEP is the first person who can help kids Estonian footballers had suffering with their difficulties. This is a played on a grass pitch, as very helpful guide for all coaches. I’m 2020 marks an important back then football fields very proud that we came out with the milestone in the history of at home consisted only of handbook and that it’s been recognised Estonian football as the men’s dirt and sand. by the UEFA Foundation for Children. national team celebrate 100 years since In difficult conditions, I’m convinced that similar steps are an their first international match. Estonia had to concede important part of our job,” said Martin In October 1920, Estonia made an Indrek Schwede archives defeat. Finland scored four Malik, president of the Czech FA. overseas visit to face their neighbours goals before half-time and “You can find 11 of the most critical and Finland in a friendly match, which marked preparations for the visiting team. managed to add two more in the second frequent topics registered by Safety Line in the team’s first appearance on the Since the Estonian Football Association half, clocking up a convincing 6-0 victory FACR this handbook. I’m very happy that other international stage. The match took place was not established until a year later, in at the full-time whistle. sports associations are interested in in the Finnish capital, Helsinki, in front of December 1921, there were no domestic Since 1920, the Estonian men’s Last year, the Czech Football Line, produced a handbook entitled adapting it so that it can be extended to a reported crowd of 2,500 spectators. championships prior to the first national team have played more than Association, in cooperation with the How To Help Children Who Suffer. other sports,” added Michaela Vesela, The historic match was held in unusual international match. The meeting with 450 matches, and Estonia and Finland Czech children’s helpline Safety The handbook was initially sent to Czech the Czech FA’s social projects manager. circumstances and with no proper Finland was also the first time the have met 35 times.

42 – UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 43 MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS

HUNGARY www.en.mlsz.hu MALTA www.mfa.com.mt GREAT GÖRÖCS LAID TO REST ACCOMMODATION SUPPORT FOR

MÁRTON DINNYÉS HEALTHCARE WORKERS

KEVIN AZZOPARDI Újpest’s legendary Olympic international debut after the 1958 World forwards, Göröcs bronze-medal-winning, 62-time Cup in Sweden in a 3-1 victory over stood out as one Hungarian international Poland in Chorzow, before being part of who could play mlsz.hu The difficult and unprecedented launched an initiative on 24 March to The related costs are being covered midfielder János Göröcs was laid to rest the Hungary team that played in the across the five-man situation we are facing calls for support healthcare workers who may by the Malta FA through the football in the Megyeri út cemetery in March. first-ever fixture, forward line but also as a creative solidarity, mutual respect and require alternative accommodation in the social responsibility fund as part of “I played with ‘Titi’ for years. It was a qualifier against the , midfielder, and it was in this latter role unity. The Malta Football Association is interest of public health. the association’s Football For Life a big thing, an honour to play in such a which, just like his first league match, that he excelled as part of a thrilling committed to supporting not only the A number of rooms have been made programme. great side as his. If he’d been allowed ended with Göröcs scoring a goal but his Újpest Dózsa that came to be regarded as football family but the entire Maltese available to the ministry of health after This accommodation support to move abroad, he’d have had a huge team losing the match 3-1. possibly the best in Europe in 1969, the community in these challenging times. the Malta FA reached an agreement with programme is being coordinated by the career. We looked up to him on and off Göröcs’ club won the 1960 Hungarian Budapest club winning the domestic At a time when the dedicated and three accommodation service providers, central procurement and supplies unit the pitch and it was my pleasure to be in league title and reached the 1962 league and cup double and knocking out selfless work of medical professionals is all members of the Maltese football family, within the country’s ministry of health. his company,” said former team-mate European Cup Winners’ Cup semi-final, English champions Leeds on their way to essential in the ongoing efforts to contain who have significantly reduced their daily While reiterating its immense . Göröcs was born in 1939 with the 22-year-old topping the the 1969 Fairs Cup final. the spread of COVID-19, the Malta FA room rates in support of this initiative. gratitude to the medical staff and all and by the age of ten was already a competition’s scoring charts along the Göröcs retired in 1974, later becoming those contributing to the ongoing registered youth footballer in Újpest. Two way with eight goals. The mid-sixties an accomplished coach and winning the efforts to tackle the coronavirus, the years later, Göröcs joined Budapest Dózsa were a transitional period for Újpest, 1987 Hungarian Cup with his beloved Malta FA thanked the accommodation – soon to become known as Újpest Dózsa but Göröcs had already gained a Újpest Dózsa. The Hungarian Football service providers for their cooperation – and, aged 18, made his full debut with reputation for superb vision, movement Association’s lifetime merit award was and support. a goal against Salgótarjáni BTC on 25 and a reading of the game. In an era given to him by president Sándor Csányi The association furthermore renewed August 1957. He made his Hungary when Hungary were rolling in world-class in 2016. its appeal to the general public to follow the advice and instructions given by the MFA health authorities. ISRAEL www.football.org.il FANS MATTER! PROJECT MOLDOVA www.fmf.md LAUNCHED FC SFÎNTUL GHEORGHE WIN THE

EITAN DOTAN IFA FEDERATION CUP

The Israel FA (IFA) and the Stands aim of the project is to support and UEFA, Cyprus, Germany, Italy, Spain, COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT organisation have launched the upgrade clubs that are managed by fans North Africa and hosts Belgium. Fans Matter! project. The launch in order for these clubs to operate in an In Israel, cooperation will take place took place on 13 February in . efficient, organised and communal way. between the Israeli FA and Stand, the FC Sfîntul Gheorghe Suruceni FC Sfîntul Gheorghe to play for the first scorer, with seven goals. The project’s main goal is to improve The series of workshops will help Israeli sports club fan organisation that have become the first winners time in the UEFA Europa League first The Federation Cup was created the ability and professional management to create experts in every country represents all sports club fans in Israel, of the national Federation Cup. preliminary round next season. specifically for the top-division clubs capabilities of fan-run football clubs, to who will be able to support fan with an emphasis on football club fans. In the final of the competition, the Saints The Saints’ opponents in the Federation in order to structure friendly matches as assist football clubs in liaising with clubs organisations and fan groups in dealing The organisation works to promote the beat Petrocub-Hîncești 2-0 courtesy Cup final, Petrocub-Hîncești, suffered warm-up competition. and authorities, and promote vast with local authorities. In addition, rights of Israeli sports fans and topics of goals from Raman Valkau and their first defeat at the ultimate stage, The FMF plans to organise this community and social responsibility. knowledge and information will be such as transparency, fan involvement, Alexandru Suvorov. after having won five consecutive group competition every year, and possibly Fans Matter! is supported by the provided to club management, staff and price regulation, game broadcast times, The trophy presentation ceremony was matches. Petrocub forward Vadim turn it into an international one in European Union and UEFA, and managed volunteers to equip them to make the and the elimination of violence and attended by Corneliu Popovici, minister Gulceac was the competition’s top the future. by SD Europe. best decisions for the club or racism in Israeli sports. of education, culture and research of During the two-year project, fan organisation. The representatives from Israel that the Republic of Moldova, and Leonid organisations, football associations and During the project, in which the Italian took part in the launch in Brussels were Oleinicenco, president of the FA of fan-run football clubs from eight different and Spanish football associations are also Stand founder Shai Golov, IFA content Moldova (FMF). countries will participate in workshops, taking part, there will be exchange visits manager and press officer Eitan Dotan, It is the first trophy for the Suruceni training sessions and information between the associations in order to Kiryat Ata youth department manager club in its 17-year history. Last year, exchanges in order to improve the understand the processes in each country, and Ha’poel Basketball CEO Ron for the first time, the team coached by resources available to fan-run football and enhance cooperation and information Feldhaim, and Ha’poel Katamon Serghei Cebotari reached the Moldovan clubs and support organisations that are sharing between them. The event was chairwoman Daphna Cup final and finished second in the involved in club management. The main also attended by representatives from Goldshmdit Cohen. championship. This performance allows CaftanatVadim

44 – UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 45 MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS

NORTHERN IRELAND www.irishfa.com ROMANIA www.frf.ro FOOTBALL COMMUNITY HUBS ROLLED OUT A VISUAL BRAND IDENTITY FOR

NIGEL TILSON WOMEN’S FOOTBALL

PAUL ZAHARIA The Irish Football Association’s foundation has started the official roll-out of 12 new The first three Romanian and develop football in Romania, a attract sponsors and commercial partners football community hubs across women’s leagues, as well as the priority that goes hand in hand with for the women’s domestic leagues and Northern Ireland. girls’ Under-15 championship, are promotion, which is a crucial part of for the women’s national teams, and also The hubs – two in Belfast and ten in about to get their first own visual brand the development process and includes create the best premises to negotiate TV the council areas outside Belfast – have identity, which will become part of the promotion of the brands and visual rights for women’s first league matches. been created to provide a greater focus existing Romanian Football Federation identities. The men’s senior and The FRF aims to turn women’s football on club and volunteer development and (FRF) brand and visual identity ‘universe’. Under-21 teams, the 42 county football into the number one team sport played on boosting participation levels in line During the past five years, the FRF’s top associations, the men’s second and third by girls and women in Romania, an aim with the Irish FA’s Let Them Play youth priority has been, and still is, to reform leagues, as well as the FRF itself, all have that can only be achieved by creating the football strategy. their own new visual identities. right environment and infrastructure and Each hub is designed to deliver a As far as women’s football giving every girl and woman the right and football for all service to the community development is concerned, this can only possibility to play and enjoy football in using football as a hook for health, be achieved through a proper and fast dedicated competitions. To achieve this education, crime prevention, good promotion process, and in order to aim, women’s football has to become a relations and employability. A regional increase the visibility and commercial sport with visibility and with increased grassroots football developer, a Let Them value, it became a must to create a commercial value. Play officer, Football For All support staff brand visual identity for each of the Regarding the new visual identity and a UEFA grassroots volunteer will be first three senior leagues, as well as itself, it combines football’s central based in each of the 12 centres. IFA for the junior ones. As a result of this element (the ball) and the silhouette Michael Boyd, director of football FRF commercial identity, the FRF hopes to of a female player. development at the Irish FA Foundation, approach is to work with the councils inclusive clubs and creating more said: “Our strength lies in the ability of and our community partners partnerships on the ground in the various our staff and volunteers to serve the to help create healthier citizens and council areas.” The roll-out began with SLOVAKIA www.futbalsfz.sk needs of the community through the communities. It’s all about providing a the launch of the Lisburn/Castlereagh hub universal language of football. Our better service, supporting stronger at Carryduff’s Lough Moss Centre. TOMÁŠ MEDVEĎ ELECTED TO SLOVAK FA

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND www.fai.ie EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE FITNESS TOPS THE BILL PETER SURIN Tomáš Medveď joined the the players’ union and actively promotes Mucha. “I will tackle GARETH MAHER executive committee of the a healthy environment for professional my new role very Slovak Football Association on players and makes useful connections responsibly and with There were 75 coaches in coordinator and conference organiser success. “We are delighted with our 28 February as the players’ representative. abroad through FIFPRO. Tomáš Medveď great respect. The attendance at the first-ever Craig Sexton said the day was a huge first-ever football fitness conference. The Slovakia’s sports law requires such a seat played for 12 clubs in four countries, services we have football fitness conference fantastic guest speakers really showcased on the executive body of every sports scoring 103 goals along the way. Today, been providing to hosted by the Football Association of the direction in which we are looking to association. he leads the Slovak elite group of top athletes for years Ireland (FAI), and it was a huge success. take the content as we move forward,” The law in question came into effect scorers and is vice-president of the league really work. And I The many speakers on the day included he said. on 1 January 2016; however, it was only that protects the rights of Slovakian SFZ believe that with a the FAI’s head of football science and “To have the event sold out weeks possible to find a new member of the athletes. role within the research, Dan Horan, Queens Park in advance shows there is a real appetite Slovak FA executive committee recently. He provides training mostly to football executive committee of the Slovak Rangers’ sports scientist Dylan Mernagh, to develop within the coaching In February 2018, the first candidate, players in the areas of law and Football Association, I will represent the the FAI’s Ger McDermott, and premier community in Ireland, and we look Blažej Vaščák, still an active player, was economics, including their post-playing players and their needs well. As one of league strength and conditioning coaches forward to continuing to progress all not endorsed by the Slovak FA life. “It is important for us to show them my priorities, I want to build consensus Darren Dillon (Shamrock Rovers) and areas of coach education.” conference. There were then no the possibilities they have during their for solving conflicts that have been Remy Tang (Bohemians). Sessions took Plans are already in place to host a candidates at any of the next three career to study and think about their problematic in the past. We want to place both on and off the pitch, as the second seminar to ensure that best conferences. future, when they will not earn money create and develop, and not destroy what participants learned from those at the top practice techniques are shared with This time, there were two former from football,” he told the conference. He works. Cooperation is the key. It is the of their respective professions. Speaking and explained to coaches all around players in contention for the seat. Former won the vote in a convincing manner only way we can work effectively,“ at the conference, FAI coach education FAI the country. goalkeeper Ján Mucha is president of with 69 votes, against 9 votes for Ján Medveď said after his election.

46 – UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 47 MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS

SWEDEN www.svenskfotboll.se UKRAINE www.ffu.org.ua DIGITAL PAYMENTS FOR REFEREES PROFESSIONAL CLUBS TO

ANDREAS NILSSON EMBRACE WOMEN’S FOOTBALL

Paying the referee in cash at the The advantages are many: the referee the payment and travel expenses. YURI MAZNYCHENKO match is an aspect of football that will be paid automatically, without The digital payment system has has changed little in the last 100 having to handle cash on matchday or been developed in-house by the The executive committee of the years. But now the Swedish FA is write a receipt by hand. Clubs will also IT department of the Swedish Ukrainian Association of Football implementing a new digital system for be rid of handling cash for the ref, FA, and will be used for most has approved a women’s football referee remuneration and expenses. and have an easier time handling FA-administered competitions development strategy for 2020–24. Payment will now be made online receipts and bookkeeping throughout from the start of the 2020 season. The unanimous decision is a instead of cash in hand, as an integrated the season. The quality of the digital Regional football associations will fundamental milestone in the part of the FA’s competition management match reports will also improve, since also implement the system at their development of women’s football system FOGIS. they are now directly connected to earliest convenience. in Ukraine. As part of the strategy, all men’s professional football clubs are required SWITZERLAND www.football.ch to register at least 20 girls under 16 years of age and to support their girls’ teams in order to assist the expansion CONTINUED GROWTH FOR WOMEN’S FOOTBALL of women’s and girls’ domestic leagues and tournaments. PIERRE BENOIT This requirement will come into force from the 2020/21 season, and Fourteen years ago, Ralph the number of home-grown female Zloczower, the Swiss FA footballers at each professional club Kubanov Pablo president at the time, set should increase to 30 under the age of himself the target of increasing domestic 17 by the end of the 2021/22 season. would participate in the higher/first was PFC . Nowadays, the women’s support for women’s football. With this In addition, clubs must sign a league competitions. team of Mariupol plays in the higher aim in mind, he set up a women’s football cooperation agreement with women’s Until recently, the first and only league, while the Karpaty Lviv team are committee, which included various female higher/first league teams or run teams professional Ukrainian football club competing for promotion from the first members of the Swiss national council within their own club structures that with both men’s and women’s teams league to the higher league. and Monika Kaelin, the wife of the former Swiss international Fritz Künzli, who recently passed away. WALES www.faw.cymru The committee quickly got down to business, working in close cooperation with the girls’ and women’s football TOGETHER WE ARE STRONGER department and overseeing qualification MELISSA PALMER for the final rounds of various UEFA youth competitions and the 2006 and 2010 U-20 Women’s World Cup, along with The COVID-19 outbreak has had a for anyone, and even greater anxiety Ampadu, give tips, in English and Welsh, Switzerland’s first-ever appearances at huge impact on our daily lives and for those with an existing mental such as “Look out for each other”, “Try a Women’s World Cup (2015) and the Football Association of Wales health problem. to stay active”, “Keep yourself occupied Women’s EURO (2017). Today, many Swiss understands that this can create worry To make people aware of some simple with things you enjoy doing at home”, internationals play for top European clubs. steps to maintain their well-being during “Eat well and stay hydrated” and “Keep The Swiss FA’s new president, this difficult period, senior Cymru players talking to your team-mates”. Dominique Blanc, has taken things a step joined Welsh mental health charity Hafal Hafal also gives five more helpful further: the girls’ and women’s football to create an advisory campaign, launched tips for looking after your physical and department is now a division in its own across FA Wales social media platforms mental health, which can be found on right and no longer falls under the Sportsfile this March. the FAW.Cymru website. technical director. At its helm, Tatjana Entitled ‘FA Wales & Hafal – Together The FAW and Hafal advisory campaign Haenni, a well-known former player, to the board’s strategic decision. “By “I am delighted that the Swiss FA has We Are Stronger’, the advisory video is is also featured in online adverts. The coach and head of women’s football at creating a separate women’s football decided to take this historic step,” said available to watch on the FA Wales FAW decided to use the adverts, which both FIFA and UEFA, is the first woman division, the Swiss FA is highlighting its Tatjana Haenni. “If women’s football is to YouTube channel. were initially dedicated to promoting the to sit on the Swiss FA’s executive board. intention to give even greater recognition be promoted in a credible and targeted Cymru players, including , now cancelled senior men’s matches, to “It’s time to send out a clear, strong to women’s football and unlock as much way, it needs to be represented in the Dan James, , Rabbi Matondo, ensure a wider reach of the well-being signal,” said Dominique Blanc, referring of its development potential as possible.” decision-making bodies.” FAW Helen Ward, and Ethan advice across the country.

48 – UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 49 MAY BIRTHDAYS NOTICE

1 FRIDAY 2 SATURDAY 3 SUNDAY 4 MONDAY 5 TUESDAY 6 WEDNESDAY 7 THURSDAY 8 FRIDAY 9 SATURDAY Bent Clausen Anton Fagan Olivier Chovaux (France) Francisca Araujo Peter Gilliéron Karl-Erik Nilsson Charles Flint (England) Marc Dobbeleir (Belgium) Terje Svendsen has been (Denmark) (Scotland) 50 Ladislav Gadosi (Portugal) 40 (Switzerland) (Sweden) Louisa Fyans (England) Aleksandr Keplin re-elected president of the Vasko Dojčinovski Ian Maxwell (Scotland) (Slovakia) Polly Handford Goran Mihaljević Gudmundur Petursson Claus Thomsen (Kazakhstan) Pekka Luhtanen (Finland) Norwegian Football Association. (North Macedonia) Haim Jakov (Israel) (England) (Montenegro) (Iceland) (Denmark) David Malcolm Vladimir Medved Anghel Iordanescu Christian Welander Ken Ridden (England) (Northern Ireland) (Slovakia) (Romania) 70 (Sweden) Marcin Stefanski Michel Pralong (Switzerland) Daniil Savitski (Estonia) (Poland) Miroslav Tulinger (Czech Republic) 60 Dan Vo Quang (France)

10 SUNDAY 11 MONDAY 12 TUESDAY 13 WEDNESDAY 14 THURSDAY 15 FRIDAY 16 SATURDAY 17 SUNDAY 18 MONDAY Yuri Baskakov (Russia) Maksym Betsko Volodymyr Geninson Henrik Ravnild (Denmark) Azamat Aitkhozhin Egon Franck (Germany) Kadri Jägel (Estonia) Lars Appelqvist (Sweden) Magnus Forssblad (Ukraine) (Ukraine) Gaston Schreurs (Scotland) 50 (Kazakhstan) Kenny Jean-Marie Svein Johannessen Tamara Chichinadze Evžen Amler (Sweden) Peter Bossaert (Belgium) (Belgium) 70 María Luisa Villa (Spain) (Czech Republic) (France) (Norway) (Georgia) Armen Melikbekyan Jean-Marie Gantenbein Elke Van Den Steen Espen Auberg (Norway) Anna Malmén Didier Quillot (France) Luis Cuervas Del Real (Armenia) 40 (Luxembourg) (Belgium) (Spain) (Sweden) 30 Elchin Samadli Mihai Stoichiţă Timo Huttunen (Finland) Hans-Jörg Eissmann Damiano Tommasi (Italy) (Azerbaijan) (Romania) Emīls Latkovskis (Latvia) (Germany) Luka Steiner (Slovenia) Knarik Grigoryan (Armenia) Kirsten van de Veen Nikolay Levnikov (Russia) (Netherlands) Piotr Maranda (Poland) Sotirios Sinnis (Greece) 19 TUESDAY 20 WEDNESDAY 21 THURSDAY 22 FRIDAY 23 SATURDAY 24 SUNDAY 25 MONDAY 26 TUESDAY 27 WEDNESDAY Jonas Baer-Hoffmann Tomás González Cueto Mette Bach Kjær Niclas Carlnén (Sweden) Vidar Halldórsson Packie Bonner Semen Andreev Nikoloz Jgarkava Peter Lawwell (Scotland) (Netherlands) (Spain) (Denmark) Karl Dhont (Belgium) 50 (Iceland) (Republic of Ireland) 60 (Russia) 80 (Georgia) Gaetano De Gabriele Michał Listkiewicz Nicolae Cebotari Rod Petrie (Scotland) Christian Hockenjos Ainar Leppänen (Estonia) Hans Cooman (Belgium) (Malta) Milovan Djukanović (Poland) (Moldova) (Germany) Teresa Romão (Portugal) Ivančica Sudac (Croatia) (Montenegro) Neli Lozeva (Bulgaria) Ewa Gajewska (Poland) Andrzej Zaręba (Poland) Evangelos Grammenos Sandra Renon (France) Costas Kapitanis (Cyprus) (Greece) 60 Paulo Lourenço (Portugal) Jozef Marko (Slovakia) Natalia Orive (Spain) (Norway)

28 THURSDAY 29 FRIDAY 30 SATURDAY 31 SUNDAY Jim Stjerne Hansen Jacques Antenen David Fernández Donel Conway (Denmark) (Switzerland) Borbalán (Spain) (Republic of Ireland) Jean-Pierre Escalettes Arnaldo Cunha (France) (Portugal) István Huszár (Hungary) Arne Larsen Økland (Norway) Mads Øland (Denmark)

JUNE BIRTHDAYS

1 MONDAY 2 TUESDAY 3 WEDNESDAY 4 THURSDAY 5 FRIDAY 6 SATURDAY 7 SUNDAY 8 MONDAY 9 TUESDAY David Avanesyan Lazar Rakidziev Klara Bjartmarz (Iceland) Mete Düren (Turkey) Maksimas Bechterevas Stefano Braschi (Italy) Sándor Berzi (Hungary) Johannes Scholtz Jonathan Ford (Wales) (Armenia) (North Macedonia) Ivaylo Ivkov (Bulgaria) Anu Jokela (Finland) (Lithuania) Michael Hyland Lars-Åke Björck (Netherlands) 70 Petri Jakonen (Finland) Ekaterina Fedyshina Ferenc Székely Radek Lobo Jean-Samuel Leuba John MacLean (Scotland) (Republic of Ireland) (Sweden) Monica Jorge (Portugal) (Switzerland) (Russia) (Hungary) (Czech Republic) Ludovico Micallef Michel Sablon (Belgium) Jesper Møller Vito Roberto Tisci Giovanni Pifarotti (Italy) Gilles Petitmangin (Italy) 60 (Malta) 70 Christensen (Denmark) (France) 60 Yauheni Tratsiuk Jaap Uilenberg Antoine Portelli (Malta) Liana Stoicescu (Romania) (Belarus) (Netherlands) 70 Andrey Vladov (Russia) John Ward (Republic of Ireland)

10 WEDNESDAY 11 THURSDAY 12 FRIDAY 13 SATURDAY 14 SUNDAY 15 MONDAY 16 TUESDAY 17 WEDNESDAY 18 THURSDAY Hans Bangerter Zoran Dimić (Serbia) Alain Courtois (Belgium) Roland Coquard (France) Nuno Castro (Portugal) Miguel Galán Torres Sabri Çelik (Turkey) Michael Maessen Elkhan Mammadov (Switzerland) Thórir Hákonarson Haris Gvozden Matej Damjanović Galina Doneva (Bulgaria) (Spain) Alkan Ergün (Turkey) (Netherlands) (Azerbaijan) Laura Dougan (Scotland) (Iceland) () (Bosnia and Herzegovina) Georgios Godalias Kepa Larumbe (Spain) Markus Nobs Ivan Novak (Croatia) Eleni Kiriou (Greece) 50 Kristinn Jakobsson Jørn West Larsen Targo Kaldoja (Estonia) (Greece) 70 Ferrán Soriano (Spain) (Switzerland) Hannelore Ratzeburg Andrew Shaw (England) (Iceland) (Denmark) Viacheslav Koloskov Anne Rei (Estonia) (Germany) (Russia) Paolo Rondelli Vilma Zurze (Lithuania) (San Marino) Gregor Weimbs- Ackermann (Germany)

19 FRIDAY 20 SATURDAY 21 SUNDAY 22 MONDAY 23 TUESDAY 24 WEDNESDAY 25 THURSDAY 26 FRIDAY 27 SATURDAY Tobias Wolf (Germany) Maria Mifsud (Malta) Vakhtang Bzikadze David Martin Vladimir Antonov Tom Borgions (Belgium) Mario Gjurcinovski Foppe de Haan Barry Bright (England) (Georgia) Benjamin Egli (Switzerland) (North Macedonia) Maxim Mitrofanov (Northern Ireland) (Moldova) Arturs Gaidels (Latvia) (Netherlands) Ruud Dokter (Russia) Zoran Cvrk (Croatia) Viktor Shvetsov (Ukraine) Leslie Irvine Jeanette Good (Finland) 50 Michalis Koukoulakis Nerijus Dunauskas (Republic of Ireland) Ilja Kaenzig (Switzerland) Pascal Parent (France) (Northern Ireland) Hilmi Sinan Güreli (Greece) (Lithuania) Aitor Elizegi Alberdi Martin Malik (Turkey) 40 Kuno Tehva (Estonia) (Spain) (Czech Republic) 50 Philippe Lafrique (France) Jouni Hyytiä (Finland) Paulius Malžinskas Georg Pangl (Austria) Karlo Kankkunen (Finland) Sigurdur Hannesson João Rocha (Portugal) (Lithuania) 50 Zvi Rosen (Israel) Jean-Jacques Schonckert (Iceland) Tomasz Mikulski (Poland) (Luxembourg) Eyjolfur Olafsson Peter Peters (Germany) Renatus Temmink (Iceland) (Netherlands) 60 28 SUNDAY 29 MONDAY 30 TUESDAY Alessandro Giaquinto Ivan Borissov Lekov Peter van Zunderd (San Marino) (Bulgaria) (Netherlands) Wim Koevermans Orhan Erdemir (Turkey) (Belgium) 60 Gyöngyi Gaál (Hungary) Ginta Pēce (Latvia) Michael Tsichritzis

(Greece) Getty Images Paul-Daniel Zaharia (Romania) UEFA DIRECT • May/June 2020 – 51 No.190 • May/June 2020