Neymar under investigation for sexist remarks, faces potential suspension
Neymar’s ambitions of representing Brazil at this summer’s World Cup face a significant new obstacle, with the 34-year-old reportedly under investigation for sexist remarks that could result in a suspension of up to 10 matches, reports BritPanorama.
The Santos forward directed his controversial comments at male referee Savio Pereira Sampaio following his side’s 2-0 Serie A triumph against Remo. Already omitted from Carlo Ancelotti’s most recent squad selection, the Brazilian icon now finds himself in an increasingly precarious position ahead of the provisional World Cup squad announcement scheduled for May 11.
A lengthy ban would severely restrict Neymar’s opportunities to demonstrate his match fitness and form to the national team manager. Speaking after the match, Neymar complained about receiving a yellow card for protesting against what he described as repeated dangerous challenges.
“That’s Savio for you; he woke up kind of ‘on his period’ and came onto the pitch in that state,” the forward stated. He further accused the official of seeking attention, claiming: “He wants to be the star of the match, he’s incredibly disrespectful to the players, he doesn’t talk, he doesn’t discuss anything, he’s the kind of guy who dictates the game, who wants to control everything.”
During the interview, Neymar was heard laughing while using the phrase “de chico.” ESPN Brazil reports this expression derives from “chiqueiro,” meaning pigsty, and stems from historical associations between menstruation and impurity. Journalist Mariana Pereira condemned the forward’s language on social media, highlighting the broader implications of such remarks.
“How easy it is to replicate sexist and prejudiced expressions. For years, women have been shamed for menstruating,” she wrote. “A simple BIOLOGICAL process seen as something dirty, hormonal fluctuations and physical pains invalidated. There are those who defend it.”
Brazilian football authorities have demonstrated a willingness to impose substantial punishments for discriminatory language. Just last month, defender Gustavo Marques received a 12-match suspension after being found guilty of making sexist comments directed at a female match official. Neymar has yet to publicly address the backlash surrounding his post-match interview.
The timing of any potential suspension poses a critical problem for Neymar’s World Cup aspirations. With an existing one-match ban already ruling him out this weekend following his third yellow card in four appearances, the forward has just 10 remaining fixtures to convince Ancelotti of his readiness before the squad deadline.
Neymar has been absent from the Selecao since October 2023, a lengthy exile that has clearly affected him. Following his omission from recent friendlies against France and Croatia, he expressed his frustration to MadHouseTV after a Kings League match. “Obviously, I’m upset and sad about not being called up,” he remarked. “But my focus remains the same: day after day, training session after training session, match after match.”
As Neymar wrestles with both the scrutiny of his remarks and the looming spectre of suspension, the balancing act between personal expression and professional accountability continues to captivate football fans. His situation serves as a potent reminder of the broader societal responsibilities that come with high-profile status.
