FIFA breaks silence after IShowSpeed allegedly faces racist abuse
IShowSpeed's viral World Cup incident triggers FIFA action
FIFA has taken swift action in support of popular YouTuber and Twitch streamer IShowSpeed following an alleged racist incident during Argentina's 3-2 win over Cape Verde in the ongoing World Cup.
On Friday, July 3, the American social media star, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., was livestreaming the match when he confronted a fan in the stands who allegedly shouted racist slurs and derogatory remarks at him in Spanish.
Despite the unacceptable behaviour, Speed remained calm. However, the clip quickly went viral, with fans condemning the incident and urging FIFA to take prompt action.
Shortly afterward, FIFA issued a statement condemning the alleged abuse and confirmed that it had launched an investigation into the matter.
"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 in a statement.
It added, "FIFA was made aware of an incident involving a supporter and IShowSpeed at Miami Stadium during the Argentina vs. Cape Verde match on July 3, 2026, and immediately initiated an investigation."
IShowSpeed, who has more than 50 million YouTube subscribers, 45 million Instagram followers and 47 million TikTok followers, has yet to publicly comment on the incident.
This is not the first alleged racist incident at this year's World Cup. France star Kylian Mbappé was also subjected to abusive comments from Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla in a now-deleted post on X after he scored the winning penalty to eliminate Paraguay from the tournament.
FIFA Players' Voice panel member George Weah categorically condemned the abuse, stating, "We stand in complete solidarity with Kylian Mbappé and condemn this reprehensible abuse in the strongest possible terms."
"Football must always be a game of respect, inclusion and unity. There can be zero tolerance for discrimination of any kind. Our message is clear: racism can never be part of the game. It's a crime," he concluded.