FIFA Probes Racist Abuse Targeting US Streamer IShowSpeed

FIFA has launched an investigation into alleged racist abuse directed at popular American streamer IShowSpeed during a World Cup match.

In a statement posted on Tuesday, FIFA said it became aware of an incident involving a supporter and IShowSpeed during the Argentina-Cape Verde match at Miami Stadium on July 3 and immediately opened an investigation.

The governing body condemned racism and all forms of discrimination, stressing that such behaviour has no place in football, at the FIFA World Cup or in society.

Cape Verde’s defender #03 Diney Borges, Argentina’s forward #15 Nicolas Gonzalez and Cape Verde’s goalkeeper #01 Vozinha fight for the ball during the 2026 World Cup round of 32 football match between Argentina and Cape Verde at the Miami Stadium in Miami Gardens on July 3, 2026. (Photo by ROBERTO SCHMIDT / AFP)

“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 statement said.

IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., has more than 57 million subscribers on YouTube and millions of followers across other social media platforms.

The 21-year-old content creator has been covering the World Cup through a partnership involving FIFA, YouTube and Fox Sports, livestreaming his experiences from tournament venues.

Reports also alleged that the streamer was subjected to further racist abuse during Tuesday’s match between Argentina and Egypt, with an Argentine supporter reportedly making monkey gestures during an encounter with him.