FIFA is expected to launch an investigation into a hand signal made by Australian VAR official Shaun Evans, which has been linked to white supremacy, ahead of Germany's 7-1 victory over Curacao at the World Cup.
Incident Details
Evans, who served as the video assistant referee (VAR) supervisor for the match, was shown on camera making an upside-down 'OK' hand gesture during the pre-match introductions, a customary moment for World Cup broadcasts. The gesture, which forms a circle with the thumb and index finger while the other fingers remain extended, has been co-opted by some extremist groups as a symbol of white supremacy.
Fan Reactions
Soccer fans quickly noticed Evans' action and shared footage on social media, accusing the Football Australia referee of promoting white supremacy. However, the symbol is also known in Australia as part of the 'Circle Game,' popularized by the American sitcom Malcolm in the Middle, where tricking someone into looking at the circle below the waist earns the right to punch them in the arm.
FIFA's Response
A FIFA spokesperson confirmed to The Athletic that they are aware of the incident but have not yet released an official statement. According to The Telegraph, the governing body is set to launch a full investigation. Evans is among 30 video review analysts selected by FIFA to officiate at the World Cup, which is being held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Concerns from Anti-Discrimination Groups
The Fare network, an anti-discrimination organization, questioned why a VAR supervisor would use such a symbol during a global event when cameras are focused on him. They noted that in subsequent matches, TV directors have stopped introducing the VAR panel to the audience. An official at the 2024 Paris Olympics faced similar consequences, having his accreditation revoked for making the same gesture during a live broadcast.
