FIFA has cleared Australian video review official Shaun Evans after he was accused of making a hand gesture resembling a white supremacist symbol during the 2026 World Cup match between Germany and Curacao.
The incident took place before Germany's 7-1 win over Curacao, when the broadcast showed the video review officials working from the World Cup VAR centre in Dallas.
Evans, who was serving as a support video assistant referee, was seen making an upside-down 'OK' hand gesture with his right hand.
The gesture triggered criticism online and prompted the Fare network, FIFA's anti-discrimination monitor, to call for Evans to be removed from the tournament.
FIFA's independent disciplinary committee reviewed the matter and concluded that Evans had not breached the governing body's disciplinary code.
Evans denied that the gesture was intentional and said he had not meant to communicate any message or affiliation.
He expressed regret over how the gesture had been interpreted, while maintaining that it did not reflect his views or beliefs.
