Neymar to Work Remotely During the 2026 World Cup, Says Brazil President

Brazil President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva quipped that Neymar is “the first player in the world to be called up to the national side and be working remotely.”

He made the remark during a ceremony at a hospital in Belo Horizonte, a city in southeastern Brazil.

Neymar returned to training with the squad this week after recovering from a calf injury.

The 34‑year‑old, Brazil’s all‑time leading scorer with 79 goals, missed the opening 1‑1 draw against Morocco.

He has also been left out of the lineup for the team’s second group match against Haiti on Saturday, according to coach Carlo Ancelotti.

“Neymar? He is not even playing!” Lula said to a young boy when the player’s name was mentioned.

“Neymar is the first player to be called up (to the national team) who is working remotely.”