World football governing body FIFA is seeking an explanation from Australian video assistant referee (VAR) official Shaun Evans after a hand gesture he made before Germany’s 7-1 victory over Curaçao at the 2026 FIFA World Cup sparked widespread discussion on social media.
The incident occurred during FIFA’s pre-match broadcast segment, which introduces match officials and the VAR team to viewers around the world. As cameras switched to the VAR hub in Dallas, Evans appeared to briefly make an upside-down “OK” sign with his right hand while standing alongside fellow officials.
The gesture quickly attracted attention online because of its varying interpretations. While it is commonly associated with the “circle game” prank, it has also been linked in recent years to white supremacist groups, prompting debate among viewers and commentators.
FIFA has not publicly offered an explanation for the gesture or disclosed details of its inquiry. The organization is understood to be seeking clarification from Evans as it reviews the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Evans, 38, is regarded as one of Australia’s most experienced referees. He has been on FIFA’s international referees list since 2017 and previously served as a VAR official during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
At domestic level, he has officiated in Australia’s A-League since 2012 and was selected to handle the league’s Grand Final in 2019. While the outcome of FIFA’s inquiry remains uncertain, the episode has emerged as one of the most talked-about off-field controversies of the tournament so far.
Elijah Adeyemi
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