FIFA announces investigation into alleged racism against IShowSpeed

James Powel, USA TODAYTue, Jul 7, 2026·1 min read

FIFA announced July 7 it is investigating an alleged incident of racist abuse involving American streamer Darren Watkins Jr., better known as IShowSpeed, that occurred during Argentina's victory over Cape Verde on July 3.

Soccer's worldwide organizing body said in a statement published to social media that it was made aware of an incident involving a supporter and Watkins and "immediately initiated an investigation."

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During halftime of the match Watkins is seen on his livestream of the July 3 game getting into a shouting match with a woman dressed in an Argentina jersey. It is not immediately clear what she said in the livestream. Watkins says "what are you even saying" to the woman before walking away.

FIFA condemned "racism, hate and discrimination in all forms" in announcing its investigation.

"The FIFA World Cup is a celebration of unity, diversity and respect," FIFA said. "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."

Watkins appears to have had racist actions directed at him from an Argentina fan after Argentina's victory over Egypt on July 7, the same day as FIFA's announcement. Watkins' livestream of the game shows a man wearing an Argentina shirt make monkey-like motions and point at the streamer.

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IShowSpeed accounts are popular across social media, with more than 50 million YouTube subscribers, 47 million followers on TikTok and 45 million Instagram followers.

USA TODAY has reached out to representatives for Watkins for comment. USA TODAY has also reached out to FIFA for comment on the July 7 incident.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: FIFA announces investigation into alleged racism against IShowSpeed