VAR official says hand gesture was involuntary after FIFA clears him
4 verified3 unconfirmed1 contested
Video assistant referee Shaun Evans made an "OK" hand gesture during a pre-game broadcast at the World Cup, sparking debate over whether it was a white supremacist symbol or a harmless prank. FIFA investigated the incident and found no evidence of a disciplinary breach, according to one report, while an anti-discrimination monitor called for Evans to be removed from the tournament. The gesture, which appeared before Germany’s 7-1 win over Curacao on Sunday, has been designated a hate symbol by the Anti-Defamation League since 2019. Evans said he was unaware of making the movement and described it as an involuntary twitch. The broadcast approach for the VAR hub was altered in subsequent games, with officials no longer posing for the camera.
What’s verified
Shaun Evans made an upside-down "OK" hand gesture while on camera in the VAR hub before Germany vs. Curacao.
The gesture has been associated with white supremacy and was added to the Anti-Defamation League’s list of hate symbols in 2019.
The Fare network, a FIFA anti-discrimination partner, called for Evans to be removed from the World Cup.
The way VAR officials were introduced on the broadcast changed after the incident, with officials no longer facing the camera.
Where accounts differ
One source reports that FIFA completed an investigation and found no evidence of a disciplinary breach, clearing Evans of any wrongdoing. Another source states that FIFA was asked for comment and does not confirm that an investigation has been concluded or that any action has been taken.
Not yet confirmed
Evans’ personal statement that the gesture was involuntary and that he regretted the interpretation comes from a single report.
It is unclear whether FIFA’s investigation is complete or ongoing, as the sources differ on this point.
The 38-year-old Evans’ age and his history as an Australian A-League referee come from a single source.
Key figures
Shaun Evans – video assistant referee from Australia.
Fare network – anti-discrimination organization.
Anti-Defamation League (ADL) – civil rights group that tracks hate symbols.
Sources: BBC News, abcnews.com
