FIFA has opened an investigation into allegations of racist abuse involving American social media influencer and streamer IShowSpeed during Argentina’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match in Miami.
The incident, which was captured during IShowSpeed’s livestream from the stadium, allegedly involved an Argentina supporter directing racist remarks at the 21-year-old content creator, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr.
Videos of the confrontation quickly spread across social media, prompting widespread condemnation.In a statement, FIFA said it had immediately launched an investigation after becoming aware of the incident.
“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 said.
FIFA added that the World Cup “is a celebration of unity, diversity and respect” and stressed that anyone who undermines those values “is not welcome in our game.”
IShowSpeed, who has more than 57 million YouTube subscribers and over 53 million TikTok followers, has become a prominent figure at this year’s tournament through his livestreams from various matches.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino and former football star Zlatan Ibrahimovic have previously appeared in some of his World Cup content.
