A television clip prior to the Germany-Curaçao match in the 2026 World Cup sparked controversy after the VAR (Video Assistant Referee) official was seen making a hand gesture that some considered to have racist connotations.
During the video assistant referee (VAR) review before the match, cameras caught Australian referee Shaun Evans standing behind his Moroccan colleague Hamza Alfaro and Colombian Nicolas Gallo, making a gesture with his right hand resembling the OK sign, a gesture that has been associated in some contexts with extremist groups that embrace white supremacist ideas.
The footage quickly spread across social media, with several users calling on FIFA to investigate the incident, arguing that such gestures have no place at the world's biggest football event.
In contrast, others pointed out that the same gesture is commonly used around the world to express approval or humor, stressing that its interpretation depends on the context and intent, and that making direct accusations without conclusive evidence may be premature.
According to media reports, FIFA has taken note of the controversy surrounding the incident and has begun reviewing the circumstances related to it, without issuing a final official position yet.
The investigation is expected to reveal whether the incident was merely a spontaneous act with no implications, or whether it warrants further action by the tournament organizers.
