Inside Saint-Maximin’s decision to put family before football amid racism in Mexico
Allan Saint-Maximin has detailed how racist abuse targeting his children forced him to leave Club América, insisting family came before career in one of the toughest decisions of his life.
France international Allan Saint-Maximin has opened up on the real reason behind his sudden exit from Club América earlier this year, confirming that racist abuse directed at his children while they attended school in Mexico left him with no option but to leave.
Speaking to BBC Sport, the winger explained that while he has long grown accustomed to criticism and hostility aimed at himself, he draws a hard line when his family becomes a target, insisting “Whatever your colour is, you don’t have to accept this.”
A Difficult Decision Rooted In Family
The 29-year-old, who signed for Club América in a big-money move before departing after just a handful of months, stressed that his departure was in no way a reflection on the club itself, praising his time in Mexico as among the best experiences of his career.
He acknowledged that discrimination is not confined to one country, noting that such behaviour can surface anywhere, including his native France, but maintained that protecting his children left him with little room to compromise.
From Mexico To MLS Via Lens
Following his exit, Saint-Maximin linked up with Lens on a short-term deal, helping the club lift a historic French Cup and finish runner-up in Ligue 1, before turning down multiple offers in favour of a family-driven switch to Charlotte FC in Major League Soccer, where he has reunited with former Aston Villa boss Dean Smith.
He says the move was made collectively with his wife and children in mind, and that he remains committed to playing with flair rather than conforming to a more rigid, mechanical style of football.
