Fifa's discrimination monitor, the Fare network, has called for the removal of a video review official over an alleged white supremacist hand gesture. Shaun Evans, an Australian official, was seen making an 'OK' symbol with his right hand in front of his right leg during the official broadcast of Germany's opening game against Curaçao on Sunday.
The gesture, which involves touching the thumb and forefinger in a circle and other fingers outstretched, was designated a hate symbol by the New York-based Anti-Defamation League in 2019. Fare, a long-time partner of Fifa and UEFA, described the gesture as 'neo-nazi' and stated that Evans should have no further role to play in the World Cup.
It is unclear whether Evans was making a political gesture or simply playing a children's game prank. The 'OK' symbol has been used as a hoax signal for white supremacy in the past, but context is key to interpreting its meaning.
Fare's statement questioned why Evans would make the gesture at a global football event where he knew he was being filmed. The organisation noted that TV directors have stopped introducing the VAR panel to the TV audience in the two subsequent games.
Fifa has been asked for comment on the matter.