Nuno Mendes: PSG condemns social media racist abuse directed at Portuguese defender

French champions Paris Saint-Germain have leapt in support of Nuno Mendes after the Portuguese defender was the recipient of racist and abusive comments on social media following their  3-1 win against Brest at the Parc des Princes on Saturday.

The visitors had gotten ahead in the 29th minute through a penalty from Romain Del Castillo after Mendes had brought down Ludovic Ajorque in the danger area. Although a brace from Ousmane Dembele either side of a strike from Fabian Ruiz, sealed a three points from PSG, the Portugal international was still subjected to racist abuse.

After the match, Mendes shared the comments he had received on his social media, and PSG expressed its full support for the Portuguese left back, condemning the abusive and racist comments directed at the defender, adding that they are working with authorities to fish out the guilty parties.

A statement from the club read: “Paris Saint-Germain doesn’t tolerate racism, antisemitism or any other form of discrimination. The racial insults directed at Nuno Mendes are totally unacceptable. We stand firmly by Nuno and all those affected, and we are working with the relevant authorities and associations to ensure those responsible are held accountable for their actions.

“At Paris Saint-Germain, we are committed to fostering an environment of inclusion, respect, and unity both on and off the pitch. Racism has no place in football, and we will continue to uphold the values of tolerance and respect that define our club.”

Paris Saint-Germain offers its full support to its player Nuno Mendes, who was targeted with offensive and racist comments on social media following yesterday’s match against Stade Brestois.

Paris Saint-Germain doesn’t tolerate racism, antisemitism or any other form of… pic.twitter.com/YqSUtMaMpl

— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) September 15, 2024

Mendes, who joined PSG on loan from Sporting Lisbon in August 2021 before signing permanently the following May, has made 80 appearances for the Paris-based club in all competitions.

PSG will host Girona in the Champions League on Wednesday, before travelling to the Stade Auguste-Delaune II to take on Reims in Ligue 1 on Saturday.