FAR official denies controvers gesture

The Australian orbiter appeared on the screen by hand forming a symbol similar to the upside-down “OK”, a gesture that has in some cases been interpreted as a symbol linked to extremist groups of white primacy. The images spread rapidly on the internet and sparked numerous reactions.

After the incident, FIFA launched an investigation to review the case. However, after analyzing images from the arbitration centre in Dallas, the world football organisation reported that it had found no disciplinary violations by Evans.

The referee himself flatly denied that the gesture had been made knowingly or that there was a hidden message.

The way this incident was presented does not represent me at all. I understand how the gesture was interpreted and I'm sorry about that, but I want to be very clear: I didn't make the symbol that was mentioned knowingly or deliberately,” stated Evans.

The 38-year-old explained that the movement was an unconscious habit that often repeats when holding a pen in his hand.

“later taken during the match shows that I have repeated the same move several times. Being part of the arbitration at the World Cup is the greatest honor of my career and I look forward to continuing to assist my colleagues during the rest of the tournament,” he added.

The incident also drew attention to organisations against discrimination. The Association Fara, which co-operates with FIFA and UEFA on issues of discrimination in football, demanded that the case be considered carefully.

According to its representatives, the gesture used resembled the renowned “OK” character that was sometimes used by extreme right groupings.

However, FIFA has closed the investigation without taking disciplinary measures against Evans. The Australian cabinet will continue to be part of the arbitration team at the World Cup, while organisers hope such controversy will not be repeated during upcoming matches./ Periscope.