FIFA has launched an investigation into allegations of racist abuse involving US content creator IShowSpeed during Argentina’s 2026 World Cup last-32 match against Cape Verde, with discrimination at the tournament still in the spotlight despite another dramatic victory for the defending champions.The incident is alleged to have occurred during Argentina’s 3-2 overtime victory over Cape Verde on July 3 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., was attending the match wearing a Cape Verde jersey and was seen confronting an Argentinian supporter in a video played on his YouTube channel.The 21-year-old internet personality, who has more than 57 million YouTube subscribers and 53 million TikTok followers, has become a familiar face at the World Cup through his live broadcasts, with FIFA president Gianni Infantino and football legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic also appearing in some of his live streams.
FIFA condemns alleged abuse
FIFA confirmed the investigation and said it took immediate action upon learning of the allegations.“The FIFA World Cup is a celebration of unity, diversity and respect,” the governing body said in a statement, according to the BBC. “It brings together people, cultures and communities from all over the world and anyone who undermines these values will not be welcome in our games.”The investigation comes just days after another racism controversy overshadowed the World Cup, with France captain Kylian Mbappe condemning Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla for racist comments following France’s last-16 win. The French Football Federation has since announced plans to pursue criminal charges over the comments.
Argentina creates another World Cup thriller
Amid the off-field controversy, Argentina once again showed their trademark resilience, fighting back from two goals down to defeat Egypt 3-2 and advance to the quarter-finals.Goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mustafa Zico gave defending champion Egypt a 2-0 lead with 11 minutes remaining.Cristian Romero sparked the comeback in the 79th minute and Lionel Messi equalized four minutes later with his eighth and 21st goal of the World Cup.Enzo Fernandez completed a stunning stoppage-time comeback to help Argentina retain their title defense.“We have an extraordinary team and no matter the difficulties and adversity, we never give up. We are always together,” Fernandez said after the victory.Argentina will now face Switzerland in the quarter-finals as Lionel Scaloni’s side continue their pursuit of back-to-back World Cup titles.
