Explained: What are the specifications of mask worn by Kylian Mbappe at Euro 2024?
Kylian Mbappe sported a black mask during the Euro 2024 Round-of-16 game between France and Belgium on Monday (July 1). Mbappe's team secured a 1-0 win and entered the quarterfinals. The Frenchman had broken his nose in Les Blues' 1-0 group-stage win against Austria in their opening match on June 17.
According to the International Football Association Board (IFAB) official website, masks worn by players during the tournament must be made of "soft, lightweight padded material."
"Non-dangerous protective equipment, for example gloves, headgear, facemasks and knee and arm protectors made of soft, lightweight padded material is permitted," the fourth article states.
Due to the broken nose, Mbappe did not play in the second group-stage match against the Netherlands (0-0) on June 21. The Real Madrid star returned to the starting lineup when the French played Poland in their final group-stage game that ended in a 1-1 draw on June 25.
Kylian Mbappe scored his first goal at the Euros against Poland by converting a penalty kick (56'), as he wore a mask throughout the 90 minutes.
Kylian Mbappe wore a tricolored mask in training before France's Euro 2024 match against Netherlands
Kylian Mbappe sported a customized tricolor mask with the French flag colors on it during a training session in Leipzig before France's 0-0 draw against the Netherlands on June 21 in the Euro 2024 group stages.
However, Mbappe would not be able to wear his blue, white, and red mask during any of the Euro 2024 matches, as it is against the official UEFA guidelines. Kylian Mbappe's mask is considered medical equipment, which he is wearing due to his nose injury.
The rules state that medical equipment can only be of a single color and cannot promote any team or manufacturer.
"Medical equipment worn on the field of play must be a single colour and free of team and manufacturer identification," the rules state (via talkSPORT).
Thus, Kylian Mbappe had no choice but to wear a black mask during the Euro games. The Frenchman broke his nose after colliding with Austrian defender Kevin Danso when France faced Austria in their opening game.
He was reportedly rushed to the hospital after the match in Dusseldorf and medical tests were conducted. As per Madrid Zone's X handle, Mbappe will undergo nose surgery to improve his breathing after the Euros.