16.06.2026 16:21
FIFA has made a decision regarding VAR referee Shaun Evans, who was under investigation for a hand gesture made during the Germany-Curaçao match. The institution stated that no disciplinary violation was detected, while Evans defended the movement as an involuntary muscle reflex.
Images from the VAR room during the match between Germany and Curaçao at the 2026 FIFA World Cup sparked controversy. It was alleged that VAR referee Shaun Evans' hand gesture was a symbol associated with far-right groups. Following the images, FIFA launched an investigation.
EVANS DENIED THE ALLEGATIONS
Australian referee Shaun Evans did not accept the claims against him. In his statement, Evans stated that he had no intention of conveying any political message and argued that the movement was involuntary. The experienced referee said, "I did not intentionally make a symbol to convey any message, affiliation, opinion, or belief. I believe it was an unconscious muscle movement."
FIFA MADE ITS DECISION
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee also completed its review of the matter. In the statement issued, it was noted that no evidence was found that Shaun Evans violated the FIFA Disciplinary Code. It was stated that the committee also took the referee's defense into consideration.
"NO VIOLATION DETECTED"
The FIFA statement included the following: "After examining the matter involving video assistant referee Shaun Evans, the committee confirms that it found no evidence of a violation of the FIFA Disciplinary Code." Thus, the investigation into the Australian referee was concluded without any sanctions being imposed.
EXPERIENCED OFFICIAL
Shaun Evans, who has been a professional referee since 2016, has officiated in over 200 matches in Australia's top-tier football league. Evans will continue to serve as a VAR referee in the World Cup.