Saint-Maximin shown red after VAR review in Charlotte FC victory

Allan Saint-Maximin was sent off in the 89th minute of Charlotte FC’s 4-0 win over Orlando City after the referee reviewed an alleged obscene gesture on Saturday.

The French winger, 29, was dismissed at Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium following an intervention by the video assistant referee (VAR).

According to The New York Times, the former Newcastle United and Al-Ahli Saudi player grabbed a sensitive area of his body while exchanging words with Orlando midfielder Wilder Cartagena. Charlotte were leading 3-0 at the time.

Referee Victor Rivas did not initially see the incident, but VAR Kevin Terry Jr directed him to the pitchside monitor. After reviewing the footage, Rivas showed Saint-Maximin a straight red card.

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) laws state that “using offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or action” is an offence punishable by a red card.

Saint-Maximin had made a significant contribution to Charlotte’s victory before his dismissal. He scored the team’s second goal in the 49th minute, but missed the chance to add another when Orlando goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau saved his penalty in the 84th minute.

Abdoulaya Doucoure followed up to score Charlotte’s fourth goal, completing a 4-0 victory.

Charlotte have one regular-season match remaining, against Inter Miami next Saturday. They are fourth in the Eastern Conference and have already secured a place in the play-offs.

Saint-Maximin joined Charlotte from French club Lens in July and has scored two goals and provided four assists in 14 Major League Soccer appearances.