VAR Referee Shan Evans Explains 'OK' Gesture as Unconscious Twitch
Summary
Australian VAR referee Shan Evans clarified that his 'OK' hand gesture during the 2026 World Cup was an unconscious twitch and FIFA cleared him of any wrongdoing after investigation.
Key Points
- Australian referee Shan Evans was seen making an inverted 'OK' gesture during the 2026 World Cup match broadcast.
- The gesture has two meanings: a harmless one and one associated with white supremacy and racism, which caused controversy.
- FIFA conducted a detailed investigation and cleared Evans, finding no violation of disciplinary codes.
- Evans explained the gesture was an unconscious twitch and stated regret over the misinterpretation, while FIFA adjusted VAR broadcast style to avoid similar incidents.