FIFA is investigating an incident in which a fan in an Argentina jersey allegedly directed racist abuse at American streamer and YouTuber IShowSpeed during Argentina’s World Cup match against Cape Verde on July 3 in Miami.

The exchange, which unfolded on the livestream of one of the tournament’s most visible online personalities, has become the latest flashpoint in a growing controversy around crowd behaviour at Argentina matches.

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The jeers that crossed the line

IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., was streaming the game when he turned toward a supporter leaning over the railing in the stands and asked what was being said.

The fan, speaking in Spanish, appeared to tell him to “go cry at the zoo”. FIFA responded by saying it “strongly condemns racism, hate and discrimination in all forms” and that it had “immediately initiated an investigation” after being made aware of the incident.

The governing body also said such conduct has “no place in football” and is not welcome at the World Cup or in society.

The disquiet refuses to fade

Argentina fans had already come under scrutiny after Egypt and Cape Verde supporters accused them of violent and racist behaviour during recent knockout matches.

In Atlanta, Egyptian supporters said they were hit with beer after Argentina scored in the dramatic round-of-16 comeback that saw Lionel Messi’s side recover from 2-0 down to win 3-2.

Fans of Cape Verde also said that Argentina supporters threw bottles toward them during the match in Miami.

Videos and photos shared online showed Argentina fans waving an Israeli flag toward the Egyptian coaching staff as they left the field.

Football’s values face another stern test

FIFA said the World Cup is meant to be “a celebration of unity, diversity and respect” and warned that anyone who undermines those values is not welcome in the game.

IShowSpeed, who has been attending and streaming several World Cup matches under a deal involving FIFA, Fox Sports and YouTube, has not publicly commented, and messages seeking a response were not immediately returned.

With the investigation now underway, the episode has broadened an already heated debate over fan conduct, racism and the atmosphere surrounding Argentina’s tournament run.

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FAQs

Q1: Why is FIFA investigating the Argentina racism incident?

FIFA launched an investigation after a fan in an Argentina jersey allegedly directed racist abuse at streamer IShowSpeed during the World Cup match against Cape Verde.

Q2: What other allegations have been made against Argentina fans?

Supporters of Egypt and Cape Verde have accused some Argentina fans of racist and violent behaviour during separate World Cup matches.