In brief
Video assistant referee Shaun Evans said the controversial upside‑down “OK” hand gesture during a World Cup match was an involuntary, subconscious twitch. FIFA’s investigation found no breach of its disciplinary code and Evans will remain available for the rest of the tournament. The incident caused a surge of online criticism, as the sign carries both benign and extremist connotations. Following the episode, FIFA altered its pre‑match VAR broadcasts, no longer showing officials posing for cameras.
During a World Cup Europe‑Africa Group game on Sunday, video assistant referee Shaun Evans was seen forming an upside‑down "OK" hand sign while holding a pen. The gesture sparked immediate backlash, as the sign has been used in some extremist circles.
In response, Evans issued a statement released by FIFA. He said he was unaware of the hand movement, calling it "an involuntary, subconscious twitch," and denied any intent to convey a message or affiliation.
FIFA conducted an investigation and issued a short statement confirming no breaches of its disciplinary code. The agency also noted that video evidence showed Evans repeating the gesture many times during the match, always with a pen between his fingers.
The incident attracted heavy scrutiny on social media and from anti‑discrimination groups. One group, the Fare network, which partners with FIFA and UEFA to address racism, urged action after the gesture was captured on camera.
Following the controversy, FIFA changed its pre‑match VAR broadcasts. The VAR team no longer poses for cameras; instead they prepare by focusing on the monitors in the referee hub next to the camera divisions.
The image below shows the VAR room for one of the recent matches.
