Allan Saint-Maximin has said no to a £22 million offer for a game he created all by himself.
Allan Saint-Maximin recently turned down a £22 million offer from a company that wanted to buy Helius, a board game he created from scratch over two and a half years.
Back in January 2022, while playing for Newcastle United, Saint-Maximin launched Helius, a fun strategy game inspired by Greek mythology, mixing cards, dice, and luck. Growing up, he loved Greek myths, so he combined that passion with his interest in board games. He even took the game on the bus during away matches!
“When I was young, I learned about Zeus and Athena and watched many films and anime about them,” he told The Sun in 2022. “Once you start to understand it, you really love it.”
According to the official rulebook, the goal of the game is to win by earning or stealing coins from your opponent.
“There was a lot of hard work and many late nights because I needed to come up with a fresh idea,” he said. “I tested it with friends and we even held small tournaments at home. It took two and a half years, but I’m really happy I didn’t give up.”
More than four years after launching Helius, its popularity has grown a lot. One company even offered £22 million to buy it. But now 29 and playing for Charlotte FC in MLS, Saint-Maximin decided not to sell.
Speaking to The Athletic about why he refused the offer, he said, “It’s not about the money. It’s about creating something, making jobs for people, and giving opportunities.”
Still, he seems open to working with others to help grow the game.
As for his football career, Saint-Maximin is currently with Charlotte FC. Before that, he spent some time with French club Lens after leaving Mexican team Club America. His time at America ended suddenly just six months after signing, following serious claims of racist abuse aimed at his children.
In an Instagram statement, he said, “The problem isn’t the color of your skin, but the color of your thoughts. I’ve faced attacks all my life, but I will never tolerate attacks on my kids.”
He added, “Protecting my children is my top priority. I want them to grow up in a world where they can be themselves and are treated with respect, no matter their background or skin color. Hate and discrimination have no place in our society.”
To those responsible, he said firmly, “You made a mistake. I will always protect my family, and no one will scare me.”
He ended with a message of strength, “The only one who frightens me is God. If you’re in La Boca now, come and find me.”