Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva made a humorous remark about footballer Neymar Jr., who is currently injured and unable to play for the national team. During a public appearance on June 20, 2026, Lula said, 'He is the first player in the world called up to do telework!' referring to Neymar's absence from the field.
Neymar, 34, has been sidelined with a recurring thigh injury that has kept him out of recent matches for both his club, Santos FC, and the Brazilian national team. The injury has raised doubts about his participation in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins in November.
Lula's comment came during a press conference in Brasília, where he discussed Brazil's preparations for the World Cup. The president, a known football fan, often jokes about the national team's players. However, he also expressed hope that Neymar would recover in time for the tournament.
Neymar has not yet responded to Lula's remarks. His medical team has stated that he is undergoing intensive physiotherapy and is expected to return to training within two weeks.
