Former West Ham United midfielder Dimitri Payet has strongly denied a series of serious allegations made by a former partner, who claims she was subjected to prolonged psychological and emotional abuse during their relationship.
The allegations were made by Larissa Ferrari, a 29-year-old Brazilian lawyer, who has spoken publicly about her experiences and has reportedly filed a complaint with authorities in Brazil.
Payet, a former France international now aged 38, has categorically rejected the claims.
According to Ferrari, the relationship began after the pair connected on Instagram in August 2023, before later meeting in person.
She has stated that she was aware Payet was married at the time and that he is a father of four. Despite this, she claims their relationship initially appeared affectionate and consensual.
Ferrari alleges that the relationship later became controlling and emotionally harmful.
She claims Payet used what she describes as “mind games” and psychological pressure to dominate her, leaving her feeling isolated and trapped.
Among the most serious allegations, Ferrari states that she endured what she described as up to 12 hours of psychological distress during one encounter.
She has also claimed that Payet repeatedly undermined her self-worth, allegedly boasting about past relationships and using such statements to intimidate and belittle her.
Ferrari further alleges that she was subjected to degrading treatment and that the footballer exerted control over her movements and decisions.
She has claimed that this behaviour had a severe impact on her mental health, stating publicly that she experienced thoughts of self-harm during the relationship.
It is important to note that these claims remain allegations. Dimitri Payet has firmly denied any wrongdoing.
In April last year, it was reported that Ferrari had made a formal complaint to police in Brazil. Details of any ongoing investigation or legal proceedings have not been made public, and no criminal verdict has been issued at this stage.
Ferrari has also alleged that she was left with physical bruising following sexual encounters and that the footballer used fear and intimidation to maintain control.
She has claimed he referenced supposed criminal connections to instil fear, an allegation that Payet has not publicly addressed in detail but denies as part of his overall rejection of the claims.
She has further stated that she became pregnant during the relationship and later suffered a miscarriage. No independent verification of this claim has been publicly presented.
Payet has “vigorously denied” all allegations made against him. Through previous statements, he has maintained that the relationship was consensual and that the accusations are untrue.
His representatives have been contacted for comment in relation to the latest claims.
As of publication, no further official statement has been released beyond his general denial.
Payet has not been charged or convicted of any offence in relation to these allegations.
Dimitri Payet is best known in English football for his time at West Ham United, where he became a fan favourite during an 18-month spell between 2015 and 2017.
His performances earned him widespread praise before he returned to France after Olympique Marseille paid approximately £25 million for his transfer.
In 2023, Payet moved to Brazil after signing for Vasco da Gama, marking a new chapter in his career. He was released by the club last summer and has since remained out of contract.
Cases involving allegations of abuse are highly sensitive, and experts stress the importance of allowing due legal process while also ensuring alleged victims feel able to come forward safely.
No court has ruled on the claims made against Payet, and under UK and international law, individuals are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise.
Support organisations continue to stress that abuse can affect individuals regardless of background, gender or social status.
Anyone affected by issues of abuse or coercive control can seek confidential support. In the UK, the National Domestic Abuse Helpline is available 24/7 on 0808 2000 247. If you are in immediate danger, emergency services should be contacted without delay.