Shaun Evans, the Australian video assistant referee (VAR) involved in a controversy over an alleged racist hand gesture, has been cleared by FIFA following an internal investigation. The incident occurred ahead of the Germany versus Curaçao match at the World Cup held in Houston on Sunday.

Evans, 38, was captured on television making a hand sign that some viewers interpreted as a “white power” symbol. The gesture, described as an upside-down “OK” sign formed by touching the forefinger and thumb while the other fingers pointed downward, is known to be used by certain white supremacist groups in the United States. The footage showed Evans in the VAR control room in Dallas prior to the match.

Following the broadcast, anti-discrimination organizations, including FIFA’s partner Fare, called for Evans to be removed from the tournament. Fare specifically urged FIFA to take disciplinary action, claiming the gesture was deliberately made and racially offensive.

Evans issued a public apology, insisting the movement was an involuntary twitch and not intended to convey any message or affiliation. In a statement released by FIFA, he said he was unaware of making the gesture at the time and expressed regret if it was misinterpreted. “I did not intentionally make a gesture to communicate a message, affiliation, or belief of any kind. The only explanation I can offer is that it was an involuntary, subconscious twitch,” Evans stated.

After reviewing the evidence, FIFA concluded there was no violation of its disciplinary code. The governing body also affirmed that its probe found no intent behind the gesture that would warrant sanctioning. As a result, Evans will remain on duty as a VAR official for the remainder of the tournament.

The incident highlights ongoing sensitivities around symbolism and conduct by officials in international sporting events, as well as the challenges in interpreting involuntary actions captured by extensive broadcast coverage. While some groups remain critical of Evans’s presence, FIFA’s investigation prioritized both the intent behind the action and the lack of conclusive evidence linking it to any discriminatory behavior.