Internet personality IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., was subjected to projectiles from Argentina fans during the nation's World Cup semi-final match against England. The incidents occurred while Watkins Jr., who has a significant online following with 57 million YouTube subscribers and 53 million TikTok followers, was livestreaming the game. This event is part of an ongoing FIFA investigation into alleged racist incidents involving the streamer throughout the tournament.

During the semi-final in Atlanta, Watkins Jr. was hit by objects thrown by a group of Argentina supporters on multiple occasions. In one instance captured on his livestream, after taking a selfie with a fan, he was struck by an object and appealed to the crowd to stop, saying, "Y'all just got to relax! Y'all don't have to throw stuff. It's all love - just watch the game!"

Later in the match, while celebrating England's goal, Watkins Jr. was hit in the face by a cup. These events follow similar incidents at previous matches during the tournament. On July 3, during Argentina's match against Cape Verde, Watkins Jr. was reportedly subjected to verbal abuse from an Argentina fan who, in Spanish, allegedly told the Black streamer to "go cry to the zoo."

The internet personality began pleading the supporters to stop throwing objects at him

Further allegations of abuse arose from Argentina's Round of 16 game against Egypt. During that match, fans were reportedly seen making monkey gestures towards Watkins Jr. This occurred after he had taunted Lionel Messi as the Argentine player prepared to take a penalty, wearing an Egypt shirt and shouting at Messi. Messi subsequently missed the penalty.

Speed was targeted on multiple occasions and was seen wiping his top as a result

FIFA has issued a statement condemning such behavior, emphasizing that "racism, hate and discrimination in all forms" have no place in football or society. The organization stated that the World Cup is a "celebration of unity, diversity and respect" and that individuals acting against these values are not welcome.

He begged the fans to stop hurling objects at him multiple times during the semi-final

Watkins Jr. has been livestreaming games across the United States, Canada, and Mexico throughout the tournament. He is a prominent figure in sports content creation, having featured FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Zlatan Ibrahimović on his channel.