Fifa has launched an inquiry into a hand gesture made by video assistant referee Shaun Evans ahead of Germany's 7-1 victory over Curacao on Sunday. During the pre-match broadcast sequence, which included a brief visual introduction of match officials, the camera cut to the VAR hub in Dallas, where Evans was seen forming an upside-down 'OK' sign with his right hand. The gesture, which can be interpreted as either benign or as a symbol associated with white supremacy, quickly sparked widespread discussion on social media. Evans, an Australian official, was part of the VAR team overseeing the match, which took place during the ongoing World Cup tournament. Prior to this incident, the VAR team had been briefly shown on camera posing for the world feed, with names and roles displayed. Following the match, the protocol changed for subsequent games – the VAR team was no longer seen facing the camera, with officials already positioned at their monitors, although their names continued to appear on screen. The shift in presentation occurred without official comment from Fifa. BBC Sport has reached out to Fifa multiple times for clarification but has not received a formal response. However, sources have confirmed to BBC Sport that Fifa is seeking an explanation from Evans regarding the gesture.
Shaun Evans made an upside-down 'OK' sign on camera before Germany's 7-1 win over Curacao, a gesture that drew immediate online scrutiny. Fifa has not issued a public statement but is seeking answers from the Australian VAR official, and the pre-match broadcast of the VAR team was quietly altered in subsequent matches. No Nigerian or African player featured in the incident. The change in broadcast protocol suggests an unacknowledged sensitivity to public perception despite the absence of an official explanation.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
