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FIFA has launched an investigation after allegations of racist abuse involving American content creator IShowSpeed during Argentina's 3-2 victory over Cape Verde at the FIFA World Cup.
The incident is alleged to have taken place on July 3 at Hard Rock Stadium, which hosted the Round of 32 match. According to FIFA, it became aware of the allegations shortly after the game and immediately began an investigation into what happened.
IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., has been a prominent presence at this year's World Cup. The 21-year-old has been live streaming matches and behind-the-scenes content throughout the tournament for his massive online audience, which includes more than 57 million YouTube subscribers and 53 million TikTok followers.
His broadcasts have also featured high-profile guests, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino and former football star Zlatan Ibrahimović.
Footage shared on IShowSpeed's YouTube channel shows him wearing a Cape Verde jersey while involved in a confrontation with a supporter of Argentina in the stadium stands. FIFA has not disclosed further details about the nature of the alleged incident or identified any individuals involved as the investigation continues.
In a statement, world football's governing body reaffirmed its commitment to combating discrimination and promoting respect across the sport.
"The FIFA World Cup is a celebration of unity, diversity and respect," the organization said.
"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 alleged incident comes just days after another racism-related controversy during the tournament. Kylian Mbappé publicly condemned comments made by Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla following Paraguay's World Cup defeat to France in the Round of 16.
Amarilla, a member of Paraguay's Liberal Radical Party, posted remarks on X that mocked Mbappé's background and education. The France captain described the comments as "despicable" and questioned whether someone expressing such views was fit to hold public office.
The French Football Federation later announced that it intended to pursue criminal action over the posts, calling the remarks "utterly abhorrent and unacceptable."
FIFA has not provided a timeline for concluding its investigation into the allegations involving IShowSpeed but reiterated that discriminatory behavior has no place in football and that incidents of racism will continue to be treated with the utmost seriousness.
