Incident at Germany-Curacao Match Sparks FIFA Investigation

The Gesture

Before Germany's 7-1 victory over Curacao on Sunday, video assistant referee Shaun Evans made a hand gesture while on camera during FIFA's pre-match broadcast. The gesture involved forming an upside-down 'OK' sign with his right hand.

A simple hand gesture has two meanings: one harmless and another associated with white supremacy.

Context of the Broadcast

FIFA had been showing VAR officials on its world feed before matches, with officials posing for the camera as their names were displayed. This practice changed immediately after the Germany-Curacao game: in subsequent matches, VAR officials were shown already facing their monitors, not posing for the camera.

Investigation Underway

BBC Sport reports that FIFA is seeking an explanation from Evans, an Australian VAR official. Social media speculation followed the broadcast, prompting the governing body to act.

FIFA has not issued an official response as of the report's publication.

Outcome

The pre-match broadcast format was altered after the incident. Officials no longer pose for the camera, effectively ending a practice that had been standard across FIFA broadcasts.