Major Controversies Surrounding Neymar: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around Neymar—discover key moments of controversy.

Neymar Jr., a Brazilian professional footballer, is renowned for his exceptional dribbling, technical skills, playmaking, and finishing. Widely considered one of the greatest players ever, he currently captains Santos and plays for the Brazil national team. Neymar is among the elite few to have scored 100 goals for three different clubs. He is the all-time Brazilian top goalscorer and assist provider in the UEFA Champions League. Moreover, he ranks second among South American men's top goalscorers in international football. With over 400 senior career goals and 250 assists, Neymar's impact on the sport is undeniable.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

September 2010: Penalty Dispute and Manager Sacking

In September 2010, during a league match against Atlético Goianiense, Santos' manager, Dorival Júnior, appointed another player to take a penalty, leading to a dispute with Neymar. The board sided with Neymar and sacked the manager, highlighting the controversies surrounding Neymar's behavior.

March 2011: Neymar scores twice against Scotland; racism controversy

On 27 March 2011, Neymar scored twice in a 2–0 win against Scotland. After a banana was thrown onto the pitch, Neymar complained about 'constant jeering and an atmosphere of racism', which led to controversy and a request for an apology from the Scottish Football Association, which he refused to give.

January 2014: Investigation into Neymar's transfer fee and Rosell's resignation

In January 2014, an investigation began in Madrid regarding Neymar's transfer fee to Barcelona, leading to Sandro Rosell's resignation on January 23, 2014. Details revealed the transfer cost €86.2 million, with Neymar's parents receiving €40 million. Barcelona and Bartomeu faced tax fraud charges.

June 2015: Suspension in Copa América

In June 2015, during the Copa América, Neymar was red carded after Brazil's second match against Colombia for deliberately kicking the ball at Pablo Armero, resulting in a four-match ban and a $10000 fine.

2015: Barcelona wins La Liga and Copa del Rey

On May 17, 2015, Barcelona secured the league title with a win over Atlético Madrid. On May 30, 2015, they defeated Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey Final, with Neymar scoring. His ball tricks during the game were deemed unsporting by the opponent.

August 2017: Barcelona files lawsuit against Neymar

On 27 August 2017, Barcelona filed a lawsuit against Neymar demanding the return of his contract renewal bonus and €8.5 million in damages. The club requested PSG to take on the payment responsibility if Neymar couldn't pay. Neymar's lawyers contested the case.

2017: Penalty dispute and Champions League group stage success

In September 2017, a penalty dispute arose between Neymar and Edinson Cavani during a match against Lyon. Later, on 22 October, Neymar scored against Marseille but was sent off. In the Champions League group stage, Neymar contributed significantly to PSG's victories, scoring in both opening games.

2018: Neymar Challenge during the 2018 World Cup

During the 2018 World Cup, Neymar inspired the "Neymar Challenge" on social media due to his dramatic dives. In response, he starred in a commercial promising to change his behavior.

July 2019: Rape investigation against Neymar dropped

In July 2019, police dropped a rape investigation against Neymar due to insufficient evidence.

August 2020: Nike contract ends after sexual assault complaint

In August 2020, Neymar's 11-year contract with Nike ended after a Nike employee made a sexual assault complaint against him, after which he signed with Puma.

2022: Neymar endorses Jair Bolsonaro in TikTok video

In 2022, Neymar appeared in a TikTok video endorsing President Jair Bolsonaro, receiving criticism for his endorsement. Bolsonaro was defeated in the election.

February 2023: Criticism after PSG lost to Bayern Munich

In February 2023, the day after PSG lost to Bayern Munich in the Champions League, images of Neymar in a fast-food restaurant surfaced on social media, leading to criticism.

2023: Neymar faces fine for environmental violations

In the summer of 2023, Neymar faced a potential fine of about $1 million for environmental violations during the construction of his Mangaratiba mansion, including diverting a waterway and using beach sand without permission.