France winger Allan Saint-Maximin has disclosed that he left Mexican club Club América after his children were subjected to racist abuse while attending school in Mexico.
The 29-year-old winger, who now plays for Charlotte FC in Major League Soccer, said he decided to speak publicly about the experience because discrimination should never be tolerated, especially when it affects children.
Speaking with BBC Sport on Friday, Saint-Maximin said he explained to his children that the treatment they received was unacceptable and should not be accepted under any circumstances.
“Whatever your colour is, you don’t have to accept this,” he said.
The former Newcastle United player had earlier condemned racism and discrimination in an Instagram post published in January, stressing that hatred has no place in society.
The post attracted widespread support, including reactions from former teammates Kieran Trippier and Joelinton.
Although Saint-Maximin declined to provide detailed information about the incidents, he revealed that problems involving his children occurred while they were attending school during his stint with Club América.
According to him, the situation was particularly painful because it involved his family, noting that while racism exists in many parts of the world, it should never be normalised.
“I was a bit sad about my son, but in every place there are these types of things, even in France, the country where I am from,” he said.
Club América publicly backed the player and his family following the incident, while teammates demonstrated solidarity by displaying a “No to Racism” banner before a league match against Necaxa.
Despite his departure, Saint-Maximin insisted that he harbours no resentment toward Club América, its players, or the Mexican people.
“It was not the fault of Club América. I have nothing against them, the players or the Mexican people. I love the club. It was one of the best places I’ve been with my family,” he said.
The father of four described leaving the club as a difficult decision but said protecting his children’s wellbeing took priority over his football career.
Following his exit from Mexico, Saint-Maximin joined French side Lens on a short-term deal, helping the club win the French Cup for the first time in its history and finish second in Ligue 1.
The winger later opted to join Charlotte FC, saying the move was largely influenced by family considerations after receiving several offers during the summer transfer window.
Saint-Maximin said he remains committed to entertaining fans with his creative style of play while building a lasting legacy at his new club.
