Brazil President Lula jokes about Neymar's World Cup absence

At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Brazil forward Neymar missed the second group match against Haiti due to a lingering hamstring injury sustained while playing for Santos. While the team continued its campaign, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva made light‑hearted remarks, saying “Neymar doesn’t even play, friend. I heard he’s the first footballer in the world who works from home,” and adding that an artificial‑intelligence national team with “eleven Pelés” could appear someday.

Lula noted that Neymar was staying in New Jersey to maximise his rehabilitation at The Ridge hotel and the Columbia Park training centre. After Brazil’s victory, coach Carlo Ancelotti said the striker would be available for the upcoming match against Scotland.