Overview
- Brazilian media and multiple international outlets report a Brazilian translator alleges Ryan Mendes entered her Auckland hotel room on March 27, 2026, assaulted and raped her and provided photos and medical records to authorities.
- The complainant filed a formal police report and submitted the results of a forensic sexual‑assault examination to New Zealand Police on April 10, 2026, and later sent extrajudicial notices to the Cape Verde Football Federation and FIFA requesting Mendes be barred from the World Cup.
- New Zealand Police have confirmed an active investigation is ongoing and say they are reviewing hotel CCTV, witness statements and forensic reports before any charging decision is made.
- FIFA has said it takes allegations of misconduct extremely seriously and is in contact with New Zealand authorities while Mendes remains with and has continued to play for Cape Verde during their World Cup run.
- The case places reputational pressure on Cape Verde’s first World Cup knockout campaign and could prompt sporting or disciplinary decisions depending on the police findings and any future action by FIFA or the national federation.