Imagine sitting next to one of the world’s most popular politicians and not recognising him. That is exactly what happened to famous YouTuber and livestreamer IShowSpeed during the latest FIFA World Cup match. The hilarious moment has now gone viral across social media.
The incident took place at MetLife Stadium, currently known as New York New Jersey Stadium, during a fixture between Brazil and Morocco on June 14. In the viral clip, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was seated beside IShowSpeed. However, it appeared that the YouTuber had no idea who was sitting next to him until someone pointed it out.
Speed was seen watching the game when he looked at his phone and saw someone mention the mayor. Looking confused, he asked, “Mayor? Who the mayor?”
Then someone pointed out Mamdani.
He turned towards him to confirm his identity, then enthusiastically greeted him with a handshake. Mamdani responded with warmth and a wide smile.
After a brief introduction, the NYC mayor told Speed that he was a fan of him and revealed that he had been listening to the YouTuber’s 2022 World Cup song every morning. Mamdani said, “I’ve been listening to your World Cup song 2022 every morning.”
The appreciation left Speed with a wide smile, who then thanked the mayor and even hugged him before going back to his seat.
“Speed’s Life Is Pure Cartoon Logic”
Their light-hearted interaction quickly found its way onto social media, where it has now racked up more than 10.8 million views as of writing. Many viewers were amused by Speed’s late realisation, and others just enjoyed their candid conversation.
“Imagine meeting the Mayor of New York City and not knowing who he is,” said one user.
Another commented, “Imagine finding out after the game that you’ve been reacting, yelling, and doing Speed antics next to the mayor the entire time.”
IShowSpeed didn’t realize he was sitting next to Zohran Mamdani the Mayor of New York City the entire time while at the World Cup game 😭 pic.twitter.com/bvVblgxKFJ
— yoxic (@yoxics) June 13, 2026
“Bro went from scrolling on his phone like it’s a random fan next to him to ‘W MAYOR ‘ in 0.2 seconds. Speed’s life is pure cartoon logic, mayor even bumping the 2022 WC song daily?? They both run NYC now,” remarked another individual.
“No way, he’s just sitting there casually while everyone else would be losing their minds. The lack of awareness is actually impressive,” joked someone else.
A different person said, “Speed really out here with more motion than everyone at the World Cup. Didn’t even recognise the Mayor but still pulled up with the handshake aura.”
