Neymar sparks fresh controversy with Las Vegas poker trips after Brazil World Cup exit

Neymar has come under fresh scrutiny in Brazil after being seen playing high‐stakes poker in Las Vegas and at home just days after the national team’s shock early elimination from the 2026 World Cup.

The 32-year-old forward, captain of the Selecao and currently with Santos, was photographed and filmed at a major poker tournament in the US shortly after Brazil were knocked out in the last 16 by Norway, losing 2-1.

His appearance, so soon after the defeat, has triggered a storm of criticism on social media, where many fans say his behaviour jars with the disappointment felt across the country at another failed World Cup campaign.

World Cup disappointment followed by Vegas spotlight

Brazil’s exit at the round‐of‐16 stage of the 2026 tournament has been widely viewed at home as a major underachievement for a squad stacked with talent and experience.

Within days of that loss to Norway, Neymar surprised many supporters by travelling to Las Vegas to take part in a poker championship, according to Brazilian outlet Globo.

Images and clips of the Brazil captain at the tables quickly circulated online. While some defended his right to spend his time off as he wished, others argued that such a public leisure trip was ill‐timed and insensitive given the mood in Brazil.

The debate intensified with critics saying the scenes contrasted sharply with the expectation that senior players would project a sense of responsibility and shared pain following the team’s elimination.

Poker return while Santos travel without him

The issue has flared again after Neymar opted not to travel with Santos for their Copa Sudamericana qualifier against Universidad Central in Venezuela.

The club’s coaching staff had chosen to rest him for the first-round match, but instead of remaining in camp, Neymar was again seen at the poker tables – this time back in Brazil.

Globo reported that the forward attended the fourth stage of the Brazilian Poker Series with friends while his team-mates were away preparing for the Sudamericana tie.

His choice of activity during a competitive week for Santos has further fuelled discussion over his priorities, with sections of the Brazilian media questioning the image projected by one of the country’s most high-profile footballers.

Winnings and ongoing tournament schedule

Brazilian network ESPN reported that in 2025 Neymar earned 53,500 Brazilian reais (around £8,000) from his participation in a poker tournament.

The current stage of the competition he is involved in is scheduled to run until 30 July, and the broadcaster said Neymar is expected to appear again in the coming days.

Supporters and pundits remain divided over the significance of his poker pursuits. Some argue that professional players are entitled to decompress through hobbies, especially outside official club and national‐team duties. Others insist that, as Brazil captain and Santos’ marquee star, his public choices carry symbolic weight – particularly in the immediate aftermath of a major tournament disappointment.

With Brazil already looking ahead to rebuilding after another World Cup setback, Neymar’s off‐field decisions are once again at the centre of a national conversation about leadership, professionalism and the responsibilities that come with being the face of Brazilian football.