Ahead of the match against Argentina, the organization confirmed that it is in contact with the authorities in New Zealand regarding the investigation against the captain of Cape Verde
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Just a few days before the match against the Argentine National Team for the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, FIFA spoke out for the first time about the allegation of sexual assault against Ryan Mendes, captain of the Cape Verde national team, which was revealed in recent hours. The organization stated that it is following the case along with the authorities in New Zealand, although it avoided providing details about a potential disciplinary investigation.
"We take any report of inappropriate conduct very seriously and have a clear process for anyone involved to report an incident", FIFA stated in a statement released by the Brazilian media O Globo.
Additionally, the entity explained that "as a general rule", its independent judicial bodies "do not comment on allegations that may or may not have been received, nor do they confirm or deny the existence of ongoing investigations". In this regard, it added: "FIFA is in contact with the authorities in New Zealand. We will not make any further comments".
FIFA is in contact with New Zealand authorities regarding the Mendes case
The case originated from a complaint filed by a Brazilian citizen who worked as an interpreter for the Cape Verdean delegation during the FIFA Series held in New Zealand in March. According to her testimony, the incident occurred on the 27th of that month, after Cape Verde's defeat by 4-2 against Chile.
The woman stated that she was called to a private room in the hotel where the delegation was staying because she believed she had to fulfill work duties. Upon realizing it was a social gathering, she returned to her room. According to the complaint, shortly after, Mendes knocked on the door and, after she opened it, forced his way in and sexually assaulted her.
After the incident, the complainant received assistance at a specialized center for victims of sexual violence, where she underwent a forensic examination. According to reports, the medical report confirmed genital injuries, bruises on various parts of the body, and other evidence that were incorporated into the investigation along with security camera footage from the hotel.
Mendes would have abused a translator
The complaint was filed on April 10, and the New Zealand police are keeping the investigation open. According to the information released, the victim also requested that FIFA and the Cape Verdean Football Federation (FCF) exclude the player from the World Cup, although she stated that she received no response from either institution.
While the judicial investigation continues in New Zealand, so far, Mendes remains part of the Cape Verde squad, which is preparing to face the Argentine National Team in the Round of 16 of the World Cup next Friday, July 3 at 19:00 (Argentina time) at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
