Previously, a few weeks ago, great outrage and controversy surrounded FIFA over the alleged behavior of assistant referee Shaun Evans. If you are unaware of the news, many people took great offense to a particular gesture, the “OK” sign upside-down by Evans, which reportedly represented a gesture that meant white supremacy and hatred. As a consequence, many fans called for the removal of Evans and demanded that FIFA not feature him or his contributions moving forward.
However, there has been an official update in recent weeks following this event. In an official announcement from ESPN, FIFA disclosed that no evidence was discovered of the racist gesture made by Evans. Consequently, there will be no actions or efforts to remove Evans from participating as an assistant referee.
As reported by ESPN, the governing body stated, “FIFA’s independent Disciplinary Committee can confirm that, after looking into the matter involving support video assistant referee Shaun Evans, it has found no evidence of breaches of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.”
Despite being cleared of the allegations, many people are still not happy with FIFA’s decision. Still calling for his removal, many fans still claim that such actions were indeed intentional by Evans and intended to represent hate and white supremacy.
To insert my own thoughts and opinions on the matter is difficult to say the least. While the gesture could have been an involuntary gesture by Evans, it could also be a symbol made to spread hatred and intolerance. But I would always advise that you do your own research and gather your own opinion on the matter before moving forward.
