Photo credit: ishowspeed (Instagram)
FIFA confirmed Tuesday it is investigating an incident involving streamer and YouTuber IShowSpeed during Friday’s World Cup match between Argentina and Cape Verde at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The incident happened in the stands while IShowSpeed livestreamed the game to his massive online audience.
During the stream, IShowSpeed asked a nearby fan wearing an Argentina jersey about remarks directed at him. Speaking in Spanish, the fan appeared to tell IShowSpeed to go cry to the zoo. IShowSpeed is Black. FIFA later opened a formal investigation into the exchange.
FIFA condemns racism and hate in all forms
FIFA released a statement Tuesday strongly condemning the behavior. The governing body said racism, hate and discrimination have no place in football, at the FIFA World Cup, or anywhere in society. It described the World Cup as a celebration of unity, diversity and respect that brings together people, cultures and communities from around the world. FIFA added that anyone who undermines those values is not welcome in the sport.
Representatives for IShowSpeed did not immediately respond to requests for comment after the incident.
Who is IShowSpeed
IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., is a 21-year-old American content creator based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Over the past several years, he has built one of the largest digital followings of any creator in his generation. His YouTube audience now exceeds 50 million subscribers. Across social media, he also has 45 million Instagram followers and 47 million TikTok followers. Fans often call him Speed, and he has become a regular presence at major sporting events. The creator previously covered the World Cup extensively across his platforms.
Friday’s Argentina vs. Cape Verde match was one of several World Cup fixtures Speed attended and streamed during the tournament. News of the incident quickly spread across social media because of the size of his audience and the visibility of the livestream.
Investigation is ongoing
FIFA has not set a timeline for the investigation or said what action it might take against the fan involved. Its statement emphasized that the organization takes allegations of racist conduct at its events seriously. FIFA plans to share additional updates as the investigation continues.
Source: The Associated Press
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