FIFA has opened an investigation into allegations of racism surrounding popular YouTuber IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., during recent World Cup matches. The popular streamer, who has a significant online following across YouTube and TikTok, has been livestreaming games throughout the tournament.
During Argentina's 3-2 victory over Cape Verde on July 3 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, IShowSpeed was seen wearing a Cape Verde jersey. Footage from his stream captured an altercation with an Argentina fan. The fan, speaking in Spanish, appeared to tell Watkins, who is Black, to "go cry to the zoo." FIFA stated, "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."
Further alleged abuse occurred during Argentina's Round of 16 match against Egypt. On his stream, Argentina fans were reportedly heard shouting at IShowSpeed, with one individual appearing to make monkey gestures. This incident followed IShowSpeed taunting Lionel Messi as the Argentine player prepared to take a penalty. A widely shared social media clip showed IShowSpeed, wearing an Egypt shirt behind the goal, screaming at Messi and waving his arms as the star player took the penalty, which he missed.
This investigation comes amid a separate controversy involving Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla, who made racist remarks about France star Kylian Mbappe. Amarilla described Mbappe as a "colonised Cameroonian" and a "brute who had not learned to write." Mbappe responded on social media, calling Amarilla a "despicable woman" and "unworthy of her position." The French Football Federation and French President Emmanuel Macron also condemned Amarilla's remarks. Amarilla later expressed regret for repeating patterns she detests but accused Mbappe of "political violence against a woman," citing his perceived arrogance and lack of respect towards the Paraguayan team.
