Video assistant referee Shaun Evans says an "OK" sign hand gesture was "an involuntary, subconscious twitch" after he was cleared by a FIFA investigation.
Evans claims he was unaware of making the gesture and denied intending to communicate any message or affiliation.
During Germany's 7-1 win over Curaçao, a clip from the VAR hub showed Evans making an upside‑down ‘OK’ sign with his right hand.
The gesture has a controversial history, used as a harmless prank and also co‑opted by far‑right groups.
FIFA concluded there was no evidence of disciplinary code breaches, and Evans will continue to work in the tournament.
Fans and social media reacted strongly, but a FIFA statement clarified no wrongdoing and confirmed his continued selection for the rest of the World Cup.
