Lens Defend Saint-Maximin Following “Hateful” Racial Abuse

The French Ligue 1 outfit RC Lens has issued a fierce condemnation following a barrage of racist vitriol directed at their new signing, Allan Saint-Maximin. The former Newcastle United fan-favourite, who recently returned to European football on a six-month deal, has found himself the target of online hostility that mirrors the traumatic events that cut short his stint in Mexico.

A Career Disrupted by Hostility

The 28-year-old winger arrived at Lens during the winter transfer window under a cloud of personal distress. His departure from the Mexican giants, Club América, was precipitated not by sporting performance, but by what he described as targeted racist abuse directed at his three young children.

Despite a promising start in Liga MX, where he made 16 appearances, the Frenchman felt compelled to void his two-year contract to ensure his family’s safety. Saint-Maximin, who travelled to Mexico with his wife and children—daughters Lyana and Ninhia, and son Dayde—made it clear that his priorities lay beyond the pitch.

Lens Responds to Social Media “Flood”

The transition back to France has, unfortunately, not provided the sanctuary expected. On Tuesday, Lens officials reported that Saint-Maximin had been subjected to a “flood of hateful and racist insults” across various digital platforms. In an immediate tactical response, the club has disabled comment sections on several official posts.

“As a civic-minded and committed club, Racing reaffirms its attachment to the values of respect and tolerance,” the club stated. “We stand alongside Allan and his loved ones, offering our full support.”

The Player’s Stand: “Colour of Thoughts”

Saint-Maximin has long been known for his expressive personality, but his recent social media communications have taken on a more solemn, defiant tone. He argued that the fundamental issue is not “the colour of skin, but the colour of thoughts.” While he noted that he has grown accustomed to personal attacks throughout his career, he drew a firm line at the involvement of his family.

Career Statistics and Journey

Saint-Maximin’s journey to Lens has been a nomadic one, spanning several of the world’s most competitive leagues.

Broader Context of Racism in Football

The abuse faced by Saint-Maximin highlights a persistent and disturbing trend in global football. Statistics from organisations like Kick It Out and FIFA show that online discriminatory abuse remains a significant barrier for players of colour. In recent seasons, reports of domestic and international online hate crimes in football have risen by over 30% year-on-year, with social media platforms often criticised for their slow response times in deplatforming offenders.

By taking a firm stance, RC Lens joins a growing list of European clubs willing to sacrifice social media engagement for the sake of player welfare. For Saint-Maximin, the battle continues as he seeks to rediscover his form on the pitch while shielding his children from the toxicity of the digital age.