Fifa seeks explanation over VAR official's hand gesture
Summary
Fifa is investigating a hand gesture made by video assistant referee (VAR) Shaun Evans before a World Cup match between Germany and Curacao. The upside-down 'OK' sign Evans displayed has different meanings, including a controversial use as a far-right symbol. After the incident, Fifa changed how VAR officials were shown on camera during matches.Key Facts
- Shaun Evans is a video assistant referee for Fifa and has been on their list since 2017.
- Before the Germany vs. Curacao match, Evans made an upside-down 'OK' hand gesture on camera.
- This gesture can mean different things, including a prank known as the circle game or a symbol used by far-right groups.
- The Anti-Defamation League lists the upside-down 'OK' sign as a hate symbol linked to white supremacy.
- The anti-discrimination group Fare, partnering with Fifa, said the gesture looks like a far-right 'white power' symbol.
- Fifa is seeking an explanation from Evans about the hand gesture but has not publicly commented yet.
- After this incident, Fifa changed pre-match TV shots of VAR officials to have them looking at monitors instead of the camera.
- Evans has refereed in the Australian A League since 2012 and was also a referee in the 2022 World Cup.
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