(SeaPRwire) – By: Julian Holbrooke
FIFA’s investigation into a VAR referee’s ‘OK’ gesture is a classic case of overreaction. This supposed ‘white supremacist’ symbol has sparked an internet panic, but is it really that serious?
FIFA is looking into Australian referee Shaun Evans. He made an upside – down OK sign before the Germany – Curacao match. The anti – discrimination group Fare, a FIFA partner, wants him removed. They claim it resembles a far – right white – power sign.
However, the OK sign has long meant approval. It also resembles a schoolyard prank. In 2017, 4chan users trolled left – wing journalists, making them think it was a racist symbol. Many media and rights groups fell for it. Since then, people using the gesture have faced attacks.
If FIFA takes action against Evans, it will face more backlash from angry fans. High ticket prices, expensive concessions, and transportation issues have already soured the World Cup. Add to that FIFA’s history of corruption and commercialization.
Author bio: Julian Holbrooke, an overseas international relations analyst contributing to major European daily newspapers.