Since the start of the FIFA World Cup 2026, YouTuber IShowSpeed, real name Darren Watkins Jr, has attracted significant attention, whether for his hilarious interactions with high-profile celebrities or his iconic wild celebrations. He has been in the stands during several games, especially when big teams like Portugal, Argentina, or Spain were playing. The influencer, however, is now at the centre of a serious discussion. FIFA launched an investigation into an alleged racist abuse directed at IShowSpeed by a fan at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
The incident reportedly happened during a group-stage game between Argentina and Cape Verde. Speed, who mostly livestreams his stadium experiences, engaged in football-related banter with an Argentine fan, who allegedly hurled racist remarks towards him.
IShowSpeed Racially Abused By Argentine Fan In Miami
Donning a Cape Verde kit, IShowSpeed appeared angry with a man in an Argentine jersey, who reportedly told him in Spanish, “Go cry at the zoo.” An avid Cristiano Ronaldo fan, Speed was supporting the Islanders, who put on a competitive show against the Lionel Messi-led side. After the footage went viral, FIFA reacted promptly and assured that strict action would be taken against the fan in question.
Argentinian fan shouts “N****, go home!” at iShowSpeed during the World Cup match in Miami pic.twitter.com/Xcnh7LbWVV
— Vidol (@imVidol) July 4, 2026
“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,” the football governing body said in a statement.
“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,” it added.
IShowSpeed reportedly faced a somewhat similar situation during the recently concluded Round of 16 match between Argentina and Egypt in Atlanta. A fan of the South American side allegedly made a monkey-like gesture toward him, while others made offensive remarks.
Kylian Mbappe Racially Abused By Paraguayan Senator
The controversy involving Speed unfolded a few days after a Paraguayan senator, Celeste Amarilla, made several racist comments about French captain Kylian Mbappe. The footballer responded strongly and called her “despicable”. The French football federation (FFF), referring to the incident, said that it would take legal action against Amarilla.
