Captain Ryan Mendes’ claims were received by the police as part of the criminal investigation into the alleged rape of a translator, after Cape Verde’s historic campaign in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Reports state that the alleged incident took place at the Round of 32 World Cup Round table team hotel after the Cape Verde team lost in self-exiting from the World Cup.
The complainant assigned to support the Cape Verde delegation during the tournament, later gave local authorities an account of the incident, which led to police opening a formal investigation.
They have taken into account witness statements, evidence and forensic evidence from the scene and are investigating into the circumstances of the allegation.
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There has not been any criminal charges leaked and Mendes has yet to be found guilty of any wrongdoings. This investigation is continuing.
On the date of publication the Cape Verde Football Federation (FCF) or FIFA had not made a detailed and public statement. It has also not been decided whether the 35-year-old captain will be subject to any sporting action at this time in the investigations by the police.
Mendes was a key figure to Cape Verde’s phenomenal World Cup campaign. The Bubista-coached team made it to the knockout phase for the first time since coming in second place in Group H despite beating Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.
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Cape Verde’s lone match in the world cup led to a 1-0 win over Saudi Arabia, giving them a place in the Round of 32 after a 0-0 draw with Spain and 2-2 draw with Uruguay.
Known for his international appearances in over a century for Cape Verde, the veteran forward is considered one of the most influential players in the country’s football history, having played for French, Turkish, UAE and Saudi football clubs in his professional career.
The France player was popularly said to have inspired the biggest ever World Cup bid from the Caribbean nation of Cape Verde.
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But the claims are now casting a shadow over what had been a historic event for the Atlantic island nation. Experts say this type of investigation requires time, and the results will rely on what evidence prosecutors amass.
Under the principle of due process, Mendes is considered innocent until, and unless, proven guilty in court.
