Former Newcastle winger Allan Saint-Maximin says he felt compelled to speak out after his children were racially abused in Mexico earlier this year.
The racist abuse directed at his family occurred after Saint-Maximin joined Mexican club Club América in August 2025 from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli.
However, the stint proved to be short-lived due to the distressing off-pitch incidents.
Children racially abused in Mexico
Speaking to the BBC on Friday, September 11, 2026, about the ordeal, the Frenchman explained that putting his family first made his decision to leave an easy one, though it left him ‘a bit sad’.
He immediately requested to terminate his contract, officially parting ways with Club América at the end of January 2026 after playing just a few months for the club.
“Some stuff happened with my kids at school because of this; you have to make a decision. I had to stay with my family,” Saint-Maximin said.
“I spoke to them and explained to them that what happened was not normal. They were not happy about it, and I was just speaking to them and explained to them that they don’t have to accept such abuse, and I was a bit sad.”
The winger, who has since signed for MLS side Charlotte FC, insists that family always comes first: “When this affects your kids, there are no more choices or options to take.”
Nothing against Club America
Saint-Maximin also stressed that he holds no animosity toward his former club, blaming the abuse instead on isolated individuals and rival fans, while questioning why such bigotry persists in society and football.
“I have nothing against Club América, the players or the Mexican people. I love the club. It was one of the best places I have been with my family. It is just some random people saying some stuff and trying to attack your family. Sometimes it even comes from rival clubs, and you never really know why such things happen in sports, but when it affects you kids, you have to make a decision,” he added.
Following the incident, Club America issued a statement expressing ‘absolute solidarity’ with Saint-Maximin and his family. His teammates then held up a ‘No to racism’ banner before their game against Necaxa.
