Neymar has announced the end of his international career after Brazil’s shock elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing the curtain down on one of the most celebrated careers in the history of the Seleção.
The 34-year-old forward made the emotional announcement following Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Introduced in the 67th minute with Brazil already trailing 2-0, Neymar was unable to inspire a comeback, although he converted a penalty deep into stoppage time to reduce the deficit. It proved to be nothing more than a consolation as Norway secured a historic place in the quarter-finals.
Speaking to TV Globo after the match, a visibly emotional Neymar confirmed that his journey with the national team had come to an end.
“I tried, I tried. Now it’s over. I started here, I finished here,” he said.
The symbolism of the occasion was striking.
MetLife Stadium was also the venue where Neymar made his Brazil debut in August 2010, scoring in a 2-0 friendly victory over the United States. Sixteen years later, the same ground witnessed his final appearance in the famous yellow shirt.
Over the course of his international career, Neymar established himself as Brazil’s greatest goalscorer, netting 80 goals in 130 appearances. Only legendary captain Cafu has represented Brazil more times, with 142 caps.
His international career featured triumphs and heartbreak in equal measure, including appearances at four FIFA World Cups—2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026.
Injuries repeatedly interrupted Neymar’s later years with the national team. He had not featured for Brazil since 2023 before being recalled for the World Cup after recovering from a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
His involvement at the tournament was limited. He made his return as a late substitute during Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Scotland in their final group match before making what is now confirmed to be his final international appearance against Norway.
Although Brazil’s World Cup campaign ended in disappointment, Neymar departs as one of the country’s most influential footballers, having inspired a generation with his flair, creativity and goals.
His retirement closes a remarkable international chapter and leaves Brazil preparing for a new era without the player who carried the nation’s attacking hopes for well over a decade.
