FIFA has launched an investigation into allegations of racism against popular YouTuber IShowSpeed
FIFA has launched an investigation into allegations of racism against popular YouTuber IShowSpeed during a World Cup fixture last week.
IShowSpeed, who boasts 57 million subscribers on YouTube and 53 million followers on TikTok, has livestreamed games throughout the tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico this summer.
The YouTuber attended the Round of 32 thriller between Argentina and Cape Verde on July 3, which saw the reigning champions emerge victorious with a 3-2 win.
IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr, was seen on his stream watching the game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami wearing a Cape Verde jersey, following the team’s fairytale run at the World Cup.
During the footage, the 21-year-old could be heard getting into an altercation with an Argentina fan.
He could be heard asking a fan in an Argentina jersey what was being said toward him. The fan speaking in Spanish appeared to be telling IShowSpeed, who is Black, to ‘go cry to the zoo.’
‘FIFA strongly condemns racism, hate and discrimination in all forms,’ the soccer body said in a statement.
‘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. It brings together people, cultures and communities from around the world, and anyone who acts in a manner that undermines these values is not welcome in our game.’
He appeared to face further abuse during Argentina’s comeback win over Egypt in the Round of 16 on Tuesday.
During his stream, Argentina fans were caught shouting at the streamer with one appearing to make monkey gestures.
It came at the end of the game after IShowSpeed had taunted Lionel Messi as the Argentine legend prepared to take a penalty against Egypt.
A clip that went viral on social media showed IShowSpeed wearing an Egypt shirt behind the goal where Messi was taking his penalty.
He was seen screaming for Messi to look at him, while waving his arms around and even barking. The Inter Miami star went on to miss the penalty.
IShowSpeed is one of the sport’s biggest content creators with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo and former Barcelona star Zlatan Ibrahimovic appearing on his channel.
