Neymar announces int'l retirement after Brazil’s exit

Neymar said on Sunday (July 5, 2026) he is done playing for Brazil's national team, announcing after he and his teammates were knocked out of the World Cup with a 2-1 loss to Norway in the round of 16.

Neymar said on Sunday (July 5, 2026) he is done playing for Brazil's national team, announcing after he and his teammates were knocked out of the World Cup with a 2-1 loss to Norway in the round of 16.

Because of a nagging right calf injury, Neymar appeared in only two of Brazil's five games in the tournament. He was also on the field for 15 minutes against Scotland in the group stages.

Brazil's best player for more than a decade had been slowed by injuries in recent years that limited his impact. The country is now entering a period of transition, with the next generation taking over.

“We ask that people will have the patience with the new generation and support them from the get-go,” captain Marquinhos said.