FIFA announced on Tuesday that it has officially launched an investigation into an incident involving American streamer IShowSpeed and a spectator during a World Cup match on July 3, 2026.
The confrontation took place in the stands of Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, during a last-32 match where Argentina defeated Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time.
>>> Canada to Join Eurovision Song Contest in 2027
Footage from a livestream on IShowSpeed's YouTube channel showed the 21-year-old, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., wearing a Cape Verde kit while arguing with a fan in an Argentina jersey.
During the broadcast, Watkins could be heard questioning what the fan was saying to him.
The spectator appeared to tell the Black content creator in Spanish to "go cry to the zoo."
FIFA's Response
"FIFA strongly condemns racism, hate and discrimination in all forms," the organization stated in an official press release.
FIFA emphasized its zero-tolerance policy toward discriminatory behavior inside tournament venues.
>>> Netflix Reboots Little House on the Prairie to Explore Frontier Life
"These actions have no place in football, at the FIFA World Cup, or anywhere in society.
… The FIFA World Cup is a celebration of unity, diversity and respect," the statement added.
According to The Associated Press, messages sent to Watkins and his publicists seeking comment were not immediately returned.
IShowSpeed has a massive global following, with more than 50 million subscribers on YouTube, 45 million followers on Instagram, and 47 million on TikTok, as reported by CityNews Halifax.
>>> Sean Mannion Takes Over as Philadelphia Eagles Offensive Coordinator
Argentina, after defeating Cape Verde, advanced to face Egypt in the round of 16 on Tuesday in Atlanta.
