Fifa seeks explanation over VAR official's hand gesture
Fifa is seeking an explanation for a hand gesture by VAR official Shaun Evans before Germany's 7-1 win over Curacao, as part of World Cup coverage. Evans was photographed with an upside-down 'OK' sign, a gesture that can be interpreted as harmless or linked to white supremacy in far-right circles, spurring a wave of online speculation. FIFA has contacted the Australian official for clarification, and Fare network says it requires guidance on the gesture's meaning. Evans, 38, has been on FIFA's referees list since 2017 and officiated at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The incident coincides with changes in pre‑match rituals showing officials facing monitors rather than the camera during World Cup broadcasts, highlighting ongoing scrutiny of symbolism and neutrality in global football.
