FIFA investigates alleged racist abuse of IShowSpeed at World Cup

MIAMI: FIFA has launched an investigation into allegations of racist abuse involving social media influencer IShowSpeed during Argentina's 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in the FIFA World Cup on Friday.

The governing body confirmed it became aware of an incident involving the American content creator, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on 3 July during the last-32 encounter.

IShowSpeed, 21, has been live-streaming matches throughout the tournament and has featured appearances from FIFA president Gianni Infantino and former Barcelona and AC Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic on some of his broadcasts.

Footage published on the YouTube star's channel shows him, wearing a Cape Verde shirt, involved in a confrontation with an Argentina supporter in the stands.

FIFA said it acted promptly after learning of the alleged incident.

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

"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."

The investigation comes just days after another alleged case of racism linked to the tournament.

France forward Kylian Mbappe condemned Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla after she posted a series of racist remarks on X mocking his background and education following Paraguay's defeat to France in the World Cup last 16.

Mbappe described the senator as "despicable" and said she was unworthy of holding public office.

The French Football Federation (FFF) has since announced it will file criminal charges over Amarilla's comments, describing the remarks as "utterly abhorrent and unacceptable", as football authorities continue efforts to tackle racism during the tournament.