In brief
During the 2026 World Cup Germany’s 7‑1 victory over Curacao, FIFA requested an explanation from VAR official Shaun Evans after a video captured him making an upside‑down ‘OK’ hand sign. The gesture has been linked to a white‑supremacy symbol, sparking widespread speculation on social media and prompting anti‑racism groups to seek clarity from the federation. FIFA has yet to provide an official response but reportedly obtained the referee’s statement. In subsequent matches the VAR screen footage changed, with officials facing the monitors rather than the camera, indicating a possible policy adjustment.
During the clash between Germany and Curacao, where Germany prevailed 7‑1, FIFA requested an explanation from VAR official Shaun Evans after a video clip caught him making an upside‑down ‘OK’ hand sign.
The hand gesture, frequently used as a far‑right symbol, was seen in FIFA’s live World Cup feed when Evans stepped away from his tablet and formed the upside‑down sign with his right hand, drawing immediate attention on social media.
Anti‑racism organisations such as Fare and Kick‑It‑Out, and the Anti‑Defamation League, have pointed out that the inverted sign is on their list of hate symbols. They have formally asked FIFA for clarification about the gesture’s intent.
While FIFA has not yet issued a public statement, reports indicate the federation has sought answers directly from the Australian referee. The incident prompted a shift in the presentation of VAR footage in subsequent matches, with officials now looking at their monitors instead of the camera.
Whether the gesture was a harmless habit or a deliberate symbol remains unclear, but the episode has underlined the need for clearer guidelines on conduct in the new broadcast format of the World Cup.
