FIFA's discrimination monitor at the FIFA World Cup 2026 has called for the removal of a VAR official after the individual appeared to make a hand gesture resembling a white supremacist sign during Germany's group-stage match against Curacao.

The monitor's intervention signals a serious escalation, as the symbol in question has been widely associated with far-right extremist groups. The call for the official's removal reflects the zero-tolerance stance anti-discrimination observers are expected to uphold at major tournaments.

Sky Sports reporter Geraint Hughes covered the story, noting that the gesture was spotted during the match involving Germany. FIFA has yet to issue a formal public statement on the matter, but the discrimination monitor's demand is understood to be under active review by tournament officials.

The incident has drawn significant attention at a World Cup already under close scrutiny for how football's governing body handles discrimination cases. Anti-racism campaigners have long pushed FIFA to take firmer action when such incidents arise on and around the pitch.

VAR officials operate in highly visible positions during matches, and any conduct deemed discriminatory carries the potential for immediate consequences under FIFA's disciplinary framework. Should the monitor's recommendation be upheld, the official would be withdrawn from further involvement in the tournament.