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FIFA requests explanation over VAR official's hand gesture before Germany-Curacao match

7 sources • 2 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 1:07 AM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

FIFA requests explanation over VAR official's hand gesture before Germany-Curacao match
Summary

FIFA is seeking clarification regarding a hand gesture made by VAR Shaun Evans ahead of Germany's 7-1 victory over Curacao on June 15. Evans appeared to form an upside-down 'OK' sign, which has dual interpretations, one of which is linked to white supremacy. This incident has sparked considerable speculation on social media. Following the match, FIFA altered its broadcast approach to ensure VAR officials faced their monitors instead of posing for cameras. The Anti-Defamation League has classified the gesture as a hate symbol. FIFA has previously been approached for comment but has not yet responded.

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By the Numbers
  • •FIFA seeks explanation from VAR Shaun Evans after a controversial gesture.
  • •Germany won 7-1 against Curacao on June 15.
  • •The upside-down OK sign has been linked to white supremacy.
  • •Post-match, FIFA changed broadcast procedures for VAR previews.
  • •The Anti-Defamation League has labeled the gesture as a hate symbol.
Latest Updates
  • 8:26 AMYahoo Sports — World Cup Referee Says Controversial Hand Gesture Was A “Subconscious Twitch” After Being Cleared By FIFA
  • 1:07 AMYahoo Sports — FIFA clear Shaun Evans: Gesture explanation sees referee avoid World Cup axe
  • 12:44 AMYahoo Sports — FIFA clears referee accused of making racist gesture
  • 11:33 PMESPN — FIFA: 'No evidence' of racist gesture by VAR asst....
  • 12:59 PMYahoo Sports — Fifa seeks explanation over VAR official's hand gesture
  • 12:59 PMBBC Sport — Fifa seeks explanation over VAR official's hand gesture
What they're saying
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UPDATE — June 16, 01:24 am PT: FIFA’s disciplinary committee has cleared Australian video referee Shaun Evans of any wrongdoing after he was accused of making a hand gesture associated with white supremacists during a broadcast. An investigation published yesterday by football’s governing body said it had found no evidence that Evans had breached FIFA’s disciplinary …

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Australian World Cup referee Shaun Evans has been cleared by FIFA's disciplinary committee after being accused of making a hand gesture that has been linked with racism.

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FIFA said Monday it found no evidence that VAR official Shaun Evans intentionally made a racist hand gesture ahead of Sunday's game between Germany and Curacao.

— ESPNby ESPN News Services
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