Why is Cape Verde Captain Ryan Mendes under investigation? What we know so far
Miami: Ryan Mendes, the captain of the Cape Verde national football team, is currently under investigation by New Zealand Police following an allegation of rape made by a Brazilian woman who served as a team interpreter. The incident reportedly occurred on 27 March 2026, during the Cape Verde squad’s stay in Auckland for pre-tournament friendly matches as part of the FIFA Series.
According to reporting by the Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte (GE), the complainant, a Brazilian national residing in New Zealand, alleged that she had been hired by the New Zealand Football Federation to provide translation and operational support for the Cape Verde delegation. She claims that after initially believing she had been called to a work meeting at the team hotel, she returned to her room upon realising it was a social event. She subsequently alleged that Mendes entered her room without permission, physically assaulted her, including strangling, punching, and biting, and committed rape.
The woman reportedly filed a formal complaint with the New Zealand Police on 10 April 2026. GE stated that the complaint included medical reports detailing injuries to her neck, lips, and genital area, as well as photographic evidence and documentation of psychological counselling she received following the alleged incident.
New Zealand Police have confirmed that an active investigation is underway regarding a complaint registered in central Auckland on 10 April. In accordance with local privacy laws, authorities have not publicly identified any suspect, nor have they filed any formal criminal charges against Mendes at this stage. Mendes is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Despite the ongoing inquiry, Mendes has remained with the Cape Verde squad throughout their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. He has captained the team during the group stage, helping the nation reach the knockout phase for the first time in its history. They are currently scheduled to face defending champions Argentina in the Round of 32.
FIFA has acknowledged the situation, stating that it treats all allegations of misconduct "extremely seriously" and is maintaining communication with the relevant New Zealand authorities. As the investigation remains active, there has been no disciplinary action taken by the world football governing body or the Cape Verde Football Federation.
According to Globo Esporte, the complainant alleged that she attempted to seek support from the Cape Verde Football Federation on several occasions, but was informed by an official that the situation was "Ryan’s personal problem." To date, the federation has not issued a public statement regarding the allegations.