European Standards (ENs) ensure safety and fairness on the field and in the stands at this summer’s biggest sporting event on European soil. When Switzerland and the Czech Republic kick-off the first match of the 2008 UEFA EURO Cup in Basel, Switzerland this weekend, it will mark the beginning of an intense, and intensive, football tournament. Millions of football enthusiasts will follow every move of their favourite team and players. While it is entirely open which team will ultimately win the cup, there are things that cannot be left to chance and luck – the safety of players and spectators, as well as the fairness of the contest. European Standards ensure that there is (literally) a level playing field.