Shocking moment Argentina fans launch objects at YouTuber IShowSpeed during World Cup semi-final… after FIFA launched investigation into racism claims
YouTuber IShowSpeed was targeted by projectiles from rowdy Argentina fans while he watched the nation’s World Cup semi-final against England on Wednesday.
The popular internet personality, who boasts 57 million subscribers on YouTube and 53 million followers on TikTok, has livestreamed games throughout the tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico this summer.
During his travels, however, the streamer has been victim to a number of alleged racist incidents – with FIFA officially launching an investigation into the matter.
The ugly scenes continued on Wednesday afternoon after the internet star appeared to be targeted by a group of fans while he waited for the game in Atlanta to begin.
During his YouTube livestream, ‘Speed’ – real name Darren Jason Watkins Jr – was hit by objects thrown from a contingent of Argentina fans on multiple occasions.
In one clip, Speed was seen taking a selfie with a fan, before being hit by an object. He turned around and said: ‘Y’all just got to relax! Y’all don’t have to throw stuff.
YouTuber IShowSpeed appeared to be targeted by projectiles from rowdy Argentina fans
The internet personality began pleading the supporters to stop throwing objects at him
‘It’s all love – just watch the game! Don’t worry about me, just watch the game!’
Shortly afterwards, the internet star was seen dancing along to some music prior to the game, before once again being targeted by projectiles from more supporters.
After being hit by an object, Speed appeared to wipe his hand and said: ‘Stop throwing stuff, bro! Stop throwing stuff!’
Later in the game, after England took the lead, Speed was targeted once again while celebrating the Three Lions’ goal.
In his stream footage, a cup was seen hitting the American influencer in the face.
The incident comes just days after similar scenes when the YouTuber attended the Round of 32 thriller between Argentina and Cape Verde on July 3, which saw the reigning champions emerge victorious with a 3-2 win.
During his broadcast, the 21-year-old could be heard getting into an altercation with an Argentina fan.
He could be heard asking a fan in an Argentina jersey what was being said toward him. The fan speaking in Spanish appeared to be telling IShowSpeed, who is Black, to ‘go cry to the zoo.’
Speed was targeted on multiple occasions and was seen wiping his top as a result
He begged the fans to stop hurling objects at him multiple times during the semi-final
‘FIFA strongly condemns racism, hate and discrimination in all forms,’ the soccer body said in a statement.
‘These actions have no place in football, at the FIFA World Cup, or anywhere in society. … The FIFA World Cup is a celebration of unity, diversity and respect. 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.’
He appeared to face further abuse during Argentina’s comeback win over Egypt in the Round of 16 on Tuesday.
During his stream, Argentina fans were caught shouting at the streamer with one appearing to make monkey gestures.
It came at the end of the game after IShowSpeed had taunted Lionel Messi as the Argentine legend prepared to take a penalty against Egypt.
A clip that went viral on social media showed IShowSpeed wearing an Egypt shirt behind the goal where Messi was taking his penalty.
He was seen screaming for Messi to look at him, while waving his arms around and even barking. The Inter Miami star went on to miss the penalty.
IShowSpeed is one of the sport’s biggest content creators with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo and former Barcelona star Zlatan Ibrahimovic appearing on his channel.
