FIFA has opened an investigation into allegations of racist abuse involving American social media influencer, IShowSpeed, during Argentina’s 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The world football governing body said it became aware of the alleged racist abuse of IShowSpeed at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, where the match was played on July 3, and immediately launched an investigation.
FIFA condemns discrimination
In a statement, FIFA reaffirmed its commitment to tackling racism and discrimination at the tournament.
“The FIFA World Cup is a celebration of unity, diversity and respect.
“It brings together people, cultures and communities from around the world and anyone who acts in a manner that undermines these values is not welcome in our game,” the statement read.
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FIFA did not provide further details about the investigation or identify the individual alleged to have been involved.
Incident captured during live stream
IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr, was attending the match wearing a Cape Verde shirt.
Footage published on his YouTube channel appears to show the 21-year-old involved in a confrontation with an Argentina supporter in the stands.
The American content creator has been a regular presence at the 2026 World Cup, live-streaming several matches during the tournament.
His broadcasts have featured FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, and former Barcelona and AC Milan striker, Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
IShowSpeed has more than 57 million subscribers on YouTube and 53 million followers on TikTok.
Latest racism controversy at the World Cup
The investigation comes days after Kylian Mbappé accused Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla of racism following comments she made about his African heritage after France’s Round of 16 victory over Paraguay.
Amarilla, a member of Paraguay’s Liberal Radical Party, posted the remarks on X after the match, prompting widespread criticism.
The French Football Federation (FFF) subsequently announced plans to file criminal charges, describing the senator’s comments as “utterly abhorrent and unacceptable.”
