Following Brazil’s humiliating Round of 16 elimination at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Brazilian football legend Neymar has formally retired from his international career.
After Brazil lost 2-1 to Norway, the 34-year-old forward confirmed his retirement from an amazing 16-year career with the national team.
Though Neymar converted a late penalty in the waning minutes of the game, it was not enough to stop Brazil’s exit; the veteran striker left the field in tears following what turned out to be his last Selecao appearance.
Neymar said his career with Brazil had ended and announced his retirement soon after the game, The News Chronicle reports. With 80 goals and 59 assists in 130 appearances, the ex-captain concludes his overseas career as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, passing the record set by the great Pele.
Though he has never lifted the FIFA World Cup, Neymar is among the best players in the nation and the second most-capped. With head coach Carlo Ancelotti set to oversee a significant team rebuild as the five-time world champions prepare for the next cycle of international tournaments, his exit marks the start of a new chapter for Brazil.
