FIFA has condemned the racist abuse directed at popular streamer IShowSpeed during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following an incident that occurred during Argentina’s Round of 32 match against Cabo Verde in Miami.
The governing body confirmed it launched an investigation shortly after becoming aware of the incident and reiterated its commitment to combating racism and discrimination at football events.
FIFA Launches Investigation
In an official statement released on Tuesday, FIFA said it had acted immediately after learning about the incident involving the American content creator, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr.
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.
FIFA was made aware of an incident involving a supporter and #IShowSpeed at Miami Stadium during the Argentina vs Cabo… pic.twitter.com/iUUJ1kRZev
— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) July 7, 2026
“FIFA was made aware of an incident involving a supporter and #IShowSpeed at Miami Stadium during the Argentina vs Cabo Verde match on 3 July 2026 and immediately initiated an investigation,” the organization said.
FIFA also reaffirmed its stance against discrimination in all forms.
“FIFA strongly condemns racism, hate, and discrimination in all forms.”
The organization added that the FIFA World Cup is meant to celebrate inclusion and respect, emphasizing that individuals who undermine those values are not welcome.
What Happened During the Livestream?
The incident took place while IShowSpeed was livestreaming the Argentina vs Cabo Verde match from the stands at Miami Stadium.
During the broadcast, the streamer noticed a supporter attempting to get his attention from a nearby section. After turning toward the fan and asking what she was saying, she allegedly responded in Spanish by telling him to “go cry at the zoo,” a remark widely condemned as racist.
The clip quickly circulated across social media, prompting widespread criticism from fans and calls for FIFA to take action.
IShowSpeed’s Role at the 2026 World Cup
IShowSpeed has become one of the most recognizable online personalities covering the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Under a partnership involving FIFA, Fox Sports, and YouTube, the streamer has been attending matches and broadcasting official match content to his millions of followers around the world.
His enormous online presence includes:
- 57 million YouTube subscribers
- 50 million Instagram followers
- 47 million TikTok followers
- 4.1 million followers on X
Combined, IShowSpeed reaches an audience of more than 150 million followers across major social media platforms.
His popularity has also made him one of the tournament’s biggest attractions. During previous World Cup matches, large crowds of fans gathered around him inside and outside stadiums, often requiring security escorts to help him move safely through public areas.
FIFA Reiterates Commitment Against Discrimination
Following the incident, FIFA stressed that the World Cup represents unity, diversity, and respect, adding that discriminatory behavior has no place in football.
The organization has not announced whether disciplinary action will be taken against the supporter involved, but confirmed that its investigation remains ongoing.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, FIFA says it remains committed to ensuring that players, fans, media personalities, and content creators can participate in the tournament in an environment free from racism, hate, and discrimination.