Major Controversies Surrounding Neymar: A Detailed Timeline

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

Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, known as Neymar, is a Brazilian professional footballer renowned for his exceptional skills as a left winger, attacking midfielder, or forward. He currently plays for Santos and captains the Brazil national team. Widely regarded as one of the best players ever, Neymar is celebrated for his flair, dribbling prowess, playmaking abilities, and clinical finishing. He holds the distinction of being Brazil's all-time top goalscorer.

Sections (7)

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

September 2010: Penalty Dispute and Manager Sacking

On 15 September 2010, during a league match against Atlético Goianiense, Neymar's attitude came to the forefront when Santos' manager appointed another player to take a penalty. This led to a dispute, and the manager was subsequently sacked by the board.

March 2011: Neymar scores twice against Scotland amid racism accusations

On March 27, 2011, Neymar scored twice in a 2–0 win against Scotland. A banana was thrown onto the pitch, leading Neymar to complain about racism, which Scottish officials denied, leading to controversy.

June 2015: Neymar scores and receives ban in Copa América

On June 14, 2015, Neymar scored and assisted in Brazil's opening Copa América fixture. He was later red carded and banned for four matches after a loss to Colombia.

August 2017: Barcelona filed a lawsuit against Neymar

On August 27, 2017, Barcelona initiated legal action against Neymar, demanding the reimbursement of his contract renewal bonus, alongside €8.5 million in damages and an additional 10% for arrears, stemming from a contract renewal in 2016.

2018: Neymar criticized for excessive diving during 2018 World Cup

During the 2018 World Cup, Neymar was criticized and inspired the "Neymar Challenge" on social media for his dramatic dives, leading to accusations of exaggerating injuries. He responded with a commercial promising to change his behavior.

2018: Pelé criticizes Neymar's off-field behavior

In 2018, Pelé criticized Neymar for his off-field behavior, stating that he complicates the gift he was given by the "God of football".

January 2019: Foot Injury and UEFA Ban

In late January 2019, Neymar suffered a foot injury. After PSG was eliminated from the Champions League, Neymar was banned by UEFA for three matches for insulting video review officials on Instagram.

July 2019: Absent from Training and Desire to Leave PSG

In July 2019, Neymar was absent from training with PSG, which took disciplinary action. Neymar wanted to leave PSG due to lack of protection from referees, jealousy from teammates, lack of appreciation from fans, and media bias.

July 2019: Rape investigation against Neymar dropped

In July 2019, police announced that the rape investigation against Neymar would be dropped due to insufficient evidence.

2019: Coupe de France Final and Incident with Spectator

In 2019, on April 27, Neymar scored in the Coupe de France Final against Rennes, which Rennes won on penalties. After the match, Neymar punched a spectator and admitted he was wrong, leading to discussions about respect and conflict.

August 2020: Neymar's contract with Nike ends

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

2020: Tested Positive for COVID-19 and lost Le Classique

In 2020, Neymar tested positive for COVID-19 and missed the first match of the season. He returned to training before a match against Marseille on September 13. PSG lost Le Classique for the first time since 2011, with Neymar receiving a red card.

2022: Endorsement of Jair Bolsonaro

In 2022, leading up to the Brazilian presidential election, Neymar appeared in a TikTok video lip-syncing a campaign jingle promoting President Jair Bolsonaro. This endorsement led to heavy criticism. Bolsonaro was later defeated by Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

February 2023: Neymar defends his lifestyle after PSG loss

In February 2023, following PSG's loss to Bayern Munich, Neymar defended images of him in a fast-food restaurant, saying, "It's my life, I do what I want."

March 2023: Surgery and Protests

In March 2023, PSG announced that Neymar would undergo surgery and miss the rest of the season, including the Champions League match against Bayern Munich. PSG supporters protested against the club and insulted Neymar, with some going to his house demanding his departure.

2023: Neymar faces fine for environmental violations

In 2023, Neymar potentially faced a fine of about $1 million for environmental violations during the construction of his Mangaratiba mansion, including unauthorized waterway diversion and use of beach sand without permission.