FIFA Demands Explanation After VAR Official’s Controversial Gesture

Mon Jun 15 2026 18:26:26 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

FIFA seeks clarity on Shaun Evans’s upside‑down OK sign that sparked fears of a white‑supremacy symbol during Germany’s 7-1 win over Curacao.

FIFA has publicly requested an explanation from Australian VAR assistant Shaun Evans after he made an upside‑down ‘OK’ hand gesture during Germany’s 7-1 victory over Curacao. The mark, which can be interpreted as a prank or a far‑right symbol, ignited social media backlash amidst World Cup 2026 coverage. FIFA’s call for answers follows widespread speculation, and the incident has prompted the governing body to change its pre‑match protocol: VAR teams no longer pose for cameras but instead face their monitors. The matter highlights ongoing concerns about offensive signals in football and the sport’s fight against racism.

FIFA Demands Explanation After VAR Official’s Controversial Gesture

FIFA has publicly asked Australian VAR assistant Shaun Evans to explain a hand sign that sparked controversy during Germany’s 7-1 defeat of Curacao.

The incident took place during the World Cup 2026 broadcast, as fans watched the on‑field referee and his team walk to the touchline before a brief cut to the VAR hub in Dallas. When the camera focused on the officials, Evans drew an upside‑down “OK” hand gesture, a sign that can be interpreted as a harmless prank or a white‑supremacy symbol.

Social media erupted almost instantly, with critics pointing out the sign’s association with far‑right groups and the Anti‑Defamation League’s 2019 hate‑symbol list.

BBC Sport claimed it had reached out to FIFA for clarification, and official statements confirm the governing body is “looking for answers from the Australian VAR official”. While no response is yet available, the incident led FIFA to alter its pre‑match protocol in subsequent games: VAR teams no longer pose for cameras but immediately face their monitors.

Should the gesture prove deliberate misconduct, FIFA may face sanctions. The controversy highlights the wider debate over offensive signals in football and fixtures, as the sport continues to combat racism and discrimination on the field.