Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior has been named in Brazil's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending months of uncertainty surrounding the fitness and international future of one of football's most iconic players.
The 34-year-old's inclusion in the Seleção's squad for the tournament — hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico — was confirmed on May 19, 2026, sending shockwaves through the football world and reigniting excitement among Brazilian fans ahead of the biggest tournament on the planet.
THE COMEBACK KID
Neymar's road back to the World Cup has been nothing short of extraordinary. After suffering a serious knee injury that kept him sidelined for over a year, many had written off the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward. His inclusion in the squad signals his full recovery and his burning desire to finally win the one trophy that has eluded him — the FIFA World Cup.
Brazil last won the World Cup in 2002, and the nation has been hungry for glory ever since. With Neymar back in the fold, hopes are high that the five-time world champions can go all the way in 2026.
WORLD CUP 2026 — THE BIG PICTURE
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the largest in history, featuring 48 teams competing across 16 host cities — 11 in the United States, three in Mexico, and two in Canada. The expanded format gives more nations than ever before a chance to compete on the world's biggest stage.
Brazil are among the tournament favourites alongside Argentina, France, England, and Spain. With Neymar fit and firing, the South American giants will be a dangerous proposition for any opponent.
THE STAKES
For Neymar, this is likely his final World Cup. At 34 years old and with his injury history, the 2026 tournament represents his last realistic chance to lift the trophy that would cement his legacy as one of the greatest players of his generation.
Brazil's opening group stage fixtures are expected to draw massive global audiences, with Neymar's return guaranteeing that the Seleção will be one of the most-watched teams throughout the tournament.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off in June 2026 across North America. Stay tuned to Billion Dollar Sport for complete coverage, match reports, player profiles, and the very latest from the tournament.