FIFA has publicly supported referee Shaun Evans following accusations of making a white supremacist gesture during the Germany-Curaçao match in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Evans was alleged to have made a hand signal interpreted as a symbol of white power while in the VAR booth. The allegations surfaced online, prompting widespread criticism and calls for investigation. FIFA stated it thoroughly investigated the incident and found no evidence to support the claims. The organization affirmed its commitment to diversity and inclusion, emphasizing that the gesture was a common communication signal used among the officiating team. FIFA has not detailed the specific nature of the signal, but maintains it was unrelated to any extremist ideology. The decision to back Evans aims to quell the controversy and allow preparations for the World Cup to continue without further disruption.