Cape Verde’s captain, Ryan Mendes, is under investigation by New Zealand Police following an alleged rape by a Brazilian interpreter during the FIFA Series in March 2026. The woman claims Mendes entered her hotel room without permission and assaulted her. Police are actively investigating, reviewing CCTV and forensic evidence. FIFA has stated it takes such allegations seriously and is cooperating with authorities. Cape Verde’s captain, Ryan Mendes, is under investigation by New Zealand Police following an alleged rape by a Brazilian interpreter during the FIFA Series in March 2026. The woman claims Mendes entered her hotel room without permission and assaulted her. Police are actively investigating, reviewing CCTV and forensic evidence. FIFA has stated it takes such allegations seriously and is cooperating with authorities.
