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FIFA clears World Cup VAR official over 'involuntary twitch' gesture

A World Cup VAR official, accused of making a gesture resembling a white supremacist sign, has been cleared by FIFA after explaining it as an "involuntary, subconscious twitch."

By World Brief · 2026-06-16
FIFA clears World Cup VAR official over 'involuntary twitch' gesture

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A VAR official at the ongoing World Cup, Shaun Evans, was recently cleared by FIFA after facing accusations of making a gesture associated with white supremacy. The incident occurred during a pre-match broadcast featuring officials before the Germany vs. Curaçao game, where Evans was seen making an "OK" hand sign, a symbol identified by some as a hate gesture.

Evans defended his actions, stating that the movement was an "involuntary, subconscious twitch" and he was unaware of making it at the time. Following an investigation, FIFA's independent disciplinary committee found no evidence of a breach of its disciplinary code, accepting his explanation and clearing him to continue his duties.

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