FIFA opens investigation after YouTuber IShowSpeed racially abused at World Cup match
FIFA has launched an investigation after American streamer IShowSpeed was allegedly subjected to racist abuse by a fan during Argentina's World Cup match against Cape Verde on July 3.
The incident
During the round-of-32 match between Argentina and Cape Verde at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on July 3, YouTuber and streamer IShowSpeed was allegedly targeted with racist slurs by a supporter in the crowd. Footage from his live stream appears to show the 21-year-old, wearing a Cape Verde kit, in a confrontation with an Argentina fan. The fan, described as a woman in an Argentina jersey, reportedly told IShowSpeed to "go cry at the zoo" in Spanish. IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., has been broadcasting his reactions from World Cup matches throughout the tournament, amassing over 56 million YouTube subscribers and more than 53 million TikTok followers.
FIFA's response
On July 7, FIFA issued a statement confirming it had been made aware of the incident and had immediately opened an investigation.
FIFA strongly condemns racism, hate and discrimination in all forms. These actions have no place in football, at the FIFA World Cup, or anywhere in society.
The governing body added that the World Cup is a celebration of unity, diversity and respect, and that anyone undermining those values is not welcome in the game. The investigation is ongoing, and no further details have been released.
Match context
Argentina beat Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in a dramatic contest. Lionel Messi opened the scoring with his seventh goal of the tournament, but Deroy Duarte equalised before half-time. Lisandro Martinez put Argentina back ahead in extra time, only for Sidny Lopes Cabral to level again with a long-range strike. An own goal by Cape Verde defender Diney Borges ultimately sent Argentina through to a last-16 meeting with Egypt in Atlanta on July 7.
- Argentina vs Cape Verde match; IShowSpeed allegedly racially abused by a fan at Hard Rock Stadium.
- FIFA issues statement condemning racism and announces an immediate investigation.
Broader racism concerns
The IShowSpeed incident is not the only racism controversy at this World Cup. Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla posted a lengthy racist message on X targeting French captain Kylian Mbappé after he scored the decisive goal in France's win. Mbappé responded sharply, calling her "despicable" and accusing her of "brazen racism." The French Football Federation is filing a criminal complaint, and the Paraguayan government has rejected her comments. It is unclear whether FIFA is investigating that case separately.
