Neymar disciplinary issues at Santos

Neymar has faced increasing disciplinary scrutiny during his tenure with Santos. Initially, reports highlighted a surge in cautions during the 2025–2026 season, where he accumulated nine yellow cards in 18 matches. While some were for fouls, many resulted from disciplinary breaches such as confrontations with opponents and complaints against referees.

As the situation progressed, the scope of disciplinary issues expanded to include investigations into specific conduct. These included alleged sexist comments directed at referee Sávio Pereira Sampaio—which initially carried the risk of a 10-match suspension, though the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) did not formalize the maximum penalty—and provocations toward Remo following the Copa de Brasil. These incidents led to an automatic suspension for a match against Flamengo.

Furthermore, the controversies have had professional repercussions beyond club sanctions. Brazil national team coach Carlo Ancelotti has ceased calling Neymar to the national squad, indicating that selection for the upcoming World Cup cycle is contingent upon the player demonstrating ‘optimal physical and mental conditions’.

During a recent 3-0 victory against Vasco da Gama, Neymar’s involvement in match tensions continued when Vasco goalkeeper Thiago Mendes refused to shake his hand. Additionally, Neymar became the first player affected by a new CBF rule regarding time-wasting during medical interventions; as team captain, he was required to leave the pitch for 60 seconds after his team failed to designate a substitute during a medical break for goalkeeper Gabriel Brazao. Neymar subsequently had to leave the field a second time to seek medical assistance for himself.