FIFA referee faces scrutiny over controversial hand gesture during World Cup match
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 9:30 PM
Last updated Jun 15, 2026
During the ongoing World Cup match between Germany and Curacao on June 15, VAR official Shaun Evans was filmed making an "OK" hand gesture that some interpret as a white power symbol. This incident occurred in the video assistant referee room while Germany was on their way to a 7-1 victory. The anti-discrimination organization Fare has called for Evans's removal from the tournament, and FIFA is anticipated to launch an investigation. In response, Evans has claimed that his gesture was an "involuntary, subconscious twitch," insisting he did not intend to communicate a discriminatory message.
- •Shaun Evans made a controversial hand gesture during Germany vs. Curacao match.
- •The gesture is being interpreted as a symbol linked to far-right groups.
- •Fare has called for Evans's removal from the World Cup.
- •FIFA is expected to investigate the incident.
- •Evans claims the gesture was unintentional and involuntary.
- 7:15 PMYahoo Sports — World Cup referee denies making ‘white power’ gesture
- 9:30 PMYahoo Sports — World Cup white power controversy, explained: What to know about FIFA referee accused of making hand gesture
"The 2026 FIFA World Cup has been undeniably exciting through its first week, including thrilling upsets, dominant victories, and compelling storylines. However, it has not been without its fair share of controversies, including a referee making what appeared to be a “white power” gesture while he was on camera. Since the incident has gone viral,…
"Here's the latest on what the Australian referee's gesture was and how it has stirred up controversy.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 16, 2026, 7:15 PMWorld Cup referee denies making ‘white power’ gesture
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has been undeniably exciting through its first week, including thrilling upsets, dominant victories, and compelling storylines. However, it has not been without its fair share of controversies, including a referee making what appeared to be a “white power” gesture while he was on camera. Since the incident has gone viral,…
- Yahoo SportsJun 15, 2026, 9:30 PMWorld Cup white power controversy, explained: What to know about FIFA referee accused of making hand gesture
Here's the latest on what the Australian referee's gesture was and how it has stirred up controversy.
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