FIFA has conducted an investigation into the racist abuse involving the American manufacturer, IShowSpeedThe incident reportedly took place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami during Argentina’s 3-2 overtime victory over Cape Verde on July 3. IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., was at the game wearing a Cape Verde jersey when he was seen fighting with an Argentine supporter in footage posted on his YouTube channel.The 21-year-old internet personality, who boasts more than 57 million YouTube subscribers and 53 million TikTok followers, has been popular during the World Cup through social media, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and football legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic in some of his streams.
FIFA condemns the alleged abuse
Confirming the investigation, FIFA said it took action as soon as it became aware of the allegations.“The FIFA World Cup is a celebration of unity, diversity and respect,” the governing body said, according to a BBC report. “It brings together people, cultures and communities from all over the world and anyone who engages in this disruptive behavior is not welcome in our sport.”The investigation comes just days after another racist scandal marred the tournament, with France captain Kylian Mbappe criticizing allegations of racism against Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla in France’s win over France in the Round of 16. The French Football Federation has announced it intends to pursue charges over the comments.
Argentina survived another World Cup
Amidst the foreign controversy, Argentina once again showed their mettle by fighting back from two goals down to beat Egypt 3-2 and secure a place in the quarterfinals.The defenders almost canceled out goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico to give Egypt a 2-0 lead 11 minutes from time.Cristian Romero opened the scoring in the 79th minute before Lionel Messi added four minutes later with his eighth goal of the tournament and 21 World Cup goals.Enzo Fernandez completed a stunning long-range conversion to keep Argentina’s defense alive.“We have an amazing team, a team that does not give up despite the challenges and difficulties. We are always together,” said Fernandez after the victory.Argentina now face Switzerland in the quarter-finals as Lionel Scaloni’s side continue their pursuit of back-to-back World Cups.