Why is Kylian Mbappe wearing a black mask instead of the French tricolour in France vs Netherlands Euro 2024?

Mbappe was seen sporting a French tricolour mask in training ahead of the Netherlands. Mbappe might not feature in the whole game but if he does come onto the pitch, he might not wear the France themed mask.

Kylian Mbappe of France with his face mask during the warms-up before the Group D match between the Netherlands and France in Euro 2024. | Photo Credit: AP

Kylian Mbappe suffered a broken nose during France’s 1-0 win against Austria in Euro 2024 and will wear a protective mask for the remainder the tournament.

He sustained the injury in an aerial collision when his face struck Kevin Danso’s shoulder. Images showed Mbappe’s nose was bloodied and swollen as he was subbed off mid-game.

France’s Kylian Mbappe adjusts his face mask during a training session. | Photo Credit: AP

Mbappe was seen sporting a French tricolour mask in training ahead of the Netherlands. Mbappe did not feature in the starting 11 but he was seen warming up with a black mask instead of the French tricolour that was seen on his face during the pre-matchday practice.

Des idées de masques 🎭😅 ?

— Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) June 17, 2024

According to UEFA’s rules - Medical equipment worn on the field of play must be a single colour and free of team and manufacturer identification.

Hence despite wearing it in training, Mbappe might have to stick to a mono-coloured mask (likely black) to avoid getting a yellow card by the referee for violating the code of conduct.

That being said, Mbappe could be allowed to wear the French mask only if UEFA makes an exception for him.

France and Netherlands will play on June 22, 12:30 AM IST.