In an unfortunate incident that cast a shadow over the sports scene in Mexico, French star Allan Saint-Maximin officially left the ranks of Club America, the Mexican first football team, after a series of racist incidents targeting his children, which prompted him to make the decision to leave in order to protect his family.
Details of the crisis and the player's departure
Club América announced on Monday the termination of the contract with French winger Allan Saint-Maximin via its official social media platforms, posting a brief message that read: "Thank you for wearing our colors, Allan Saint-Maximin." This announcement came hours after the player posted an angry message on his Instagram account, revealing that his children had been subjected to racist harassment. He addressed the perpetrators in a strongly worded message: "To those who dared to attack my children, I say to you: You have made a mistake. I will always fight to protect my loved ones, and no person or threat can intimidate me.".
Team solidarity and difficulties of adaptation
Despite the sad ending, Maximin's teammates showed him tremendous support. They entered the pitch for their final match against Necaxa last Saturday holding a banner that read "No to Racism," in his absence from the squad. Brazilian coach André Jardine expressed his regret over the situation, noting that Maximin possesses world-class talent but faced significant difficulties adapting to life in Mexico City, from the food to daily routines. Jardine emphasized that the team had never experienced any disciplinary issues with Maximin within the group.
The phenomenon of racism and its impact on football
This incident reopens the debate surrounding the pervasive racism in football stadiums worldwide, a phenomenon no longer confined to chants in the stands but extending to the personal lives of players and their families. The departure of a player of Santa Maxi's stature from the Mexican league due to racism is a blow to efforts to attract international stars and serves as a reminder of the need for stricter penalties and the implementation of awareness programs advocated by FIFA to protect players and their families from discrimination.
Maximan's career and statistics
Allan Saint-Maximin, 28, has had a distinguished professional career, playing for around 10 clubs, most notably Newcastle United in England, Monaco in France, and Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia. He joined Club América in August 2015, making 16 appearances and scoring 3 goals, before his time in Mexico came to an end for non-sporting reasons.
