Newcastle United's former winger Allan Saint-Maximin has spoken to BBC Sport about deciding to speak out publicly after his children were racially abused earlier this year, saying "whatever your colour is, you don't have to accept this." The Frenchman revealed the abuse occurred at his children's school during his time at Mexican club Club America, prompting him to leave the club, and said he felt a responsibility to highlight the issue given his profile, even though it cost him a place he loved.

Saint-Maximin's January Instagram post condemning "hatred and discrimination" was liked by more than 159,000 people, including ex-Newcastle team-mates Kieran Trippier and Joelinton, though he has not detailed the exact incidents. Club America expressed "absolute solidarity" with his family and players displayed a "No to racism" banner, with Saint-Maximin stressing he holds no grudge against the club or Mexican people. He subsequently returned to France with Lens, helping them win the French Cup and finish second in Ligue 1, before this summer choosing to join Major League Soccer side Charlotte FC on a three-year deal as a "family choice," reuniting with former Aston Villa manager Dean Smith.