Argentine supporters commit racist acts at World Cup events in Brazil and USA

During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Argentine fans have repeatedly performed racist gestures. In Morro de São Paulo, Bahia, Brazil, video footage showed a tourist Argentine imitating a monkey toward a Black man after Argentina’s semifinal victory. The Cairu municipality condemned the act, stating it "does not tolerate any form of discrimination or racism," and reminded that racial injury is unbailable and imprescriptible under Brazilian law. The incident occurred at the Funny Restaurant, where management also issued a strong repudiation.

A separate video from the same location captured another Argentine fan making a similar monkey gesture during the celebration.

In the United States, Argentine supporters targeted popular streamer IShowSpeed at the Mercedes‑Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Fans threw objects and shouted monkey‑imitating chants during matches, marking the third instance of such abuse in the tournament. FIFA opened an investigation, issuing a statement that it "condemns racism, hatred and discrimination in all its forms."

Experts link these episodes to a broader pattern of racism in Argentine football, citing a historical myth of a "white Argentina" and limited enforcement of CONMEBOL penalties despite increased fines to $100,000 in 2023. The incidents have provoked official denunciations and sparked public outrage across the affected venues.