Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, Neymar, has announced his retirement from international football following the Seleção’s shock elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 34-year-old confirmed his decision after Brazil suffered a 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16, a result that ended the South American giants’ hopes of winning a sixth World Cup title.
Neymar came off the bench to score a stoppage-time penalty, but his late goal was not enough to prevent Brazil’s exit, as Erling Haaland’s second-half brace proved decisive for Norway.
An emotional Neymar broke down in tears at the final whistle and was consoled by teammates before revealing that his journey with the Brazilian national team had come to an end.
“I tried. I tried. It started here at MetLife Stadium, and I finished here. It is now over,” the veteran forward said after the match.
His retirement brings the curtain down on a remarkable 16-year international career that saw him become Brazil’s greatest-ever goalscorer.
Neymar leaves the national team with an impressive record of 80 goals and 59 assists in 130 appearances, surpassing the legendary Pelé as Brazil’s highest scorer. He also finishes as the country’s second-most capped player, having represented the Seleção at multiple major tournaments.
Although the FIFA World Cup title eluded him throughout his career, Neymar remained the focal point of Brazil’s attack for more than a decade, wearing the iconic No. 10 shirt and helping the team compete at the highest level of international football.
His inclusion in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad had initially raised eyebrows after an injury-plagued spell in recent years. However, head coach Carlo Ancelotti handed the Santos forward a place in the squad, believing his experience could prove vital.
With Neymar’s departure, Brazil now enters a new era as the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and Ancelotti begin rebuilding the national team ahead of future international competitions.
Neymar’s retirement marks the end of one of the most celebrated careers in Brazilian football history, closing the chapter on a player widely regarded as one of the finest talents of his generation.
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