FIFA Investigates Racist Abuse Against IShowSpeed

FIFA has launched an investigation into alleged racist abuse targeting streamer Darren Watkins Jr., known as IShowSpeed, during a World Cup match between Argentina and Cape Verde on July 3, 2026. The global football body announced the initiation of this investigation on Tuesday, following reports of racist insults directed at Watkins, who has 57 million subscribers on YouTube and 10 million on another video platform.

The incident occurred while he was attending the match at a Miami stadium, where he was streaming live as part of a special deal with FIFA and YouTube for the U.S. broadcast. FIFA strongly condemned any form of racism, hate, or discrimination, stating that there is no place for such actions in football or society.

Reports indicated that an Argentine fan imitated a monkey during the encounter with Watkins, which has drawn significant attention and concern regarding racism in sports.