Neymar could face a lengthy suspension after being reported to Brazil’s Sports Tribunal over an alleged breach of the so-called “Vinícius Júnior rule” during Santos’ 1-0 victory over Bahia.
The Santos forward was sent off on Saturday after covering his mouth with his hand while arguing with Bahia midfielder Rodrigo Nestor. The incident has since triggered disciplinary action, with Neymar facing a potential ban of up to six matches if found guilty.
The controversy centres on allegations of verbal abuse, with Bahia publicly condemning the conduct directed at Nestor during the Brazilian Championship fixture.
The incident has put Neymar under fresh scrutiny at a crucial stage of Santos’ season, with the club still having six league matches remaining.
Nestor did not hide his frustration after the game, describing the alleged comments as a serious show of disrespect towards both himself and his club.
Speaking to reporters, the Bahia midfielder said what Neymar told him was “highly disrespectful — both toward me and toward the Bahia jersey.”
Neymar, 34, acknowledged that covering his mouth during the confrontation was wrong but denied making any comment directed at Nestor. The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward also hit back at the Bahia midfielder, accusing him of making “one of the dirties tricks in football.”
Bahia’s strong response has added to the pressure surrounding the case, with the club condemning what it described as “verbal abuse” following Neymar’s dismissal.
The disciplinary proceedings are expected to move quickly, as Neymar’s hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday. The tribunal will determine the outcome of the case and whether the Santos star should receive further punishment.
A maximum six-match suspension would be a significant blow for Neymar and Santos, particularly with the Brazilian Championship entering its closing stages.
Santos narrowly avoided relegation last season and have made progress in the current campaign. They are eighth in the standings, sitting 12 points clear of the relegation zone with six matches left to play.
However, losing Neymar for the remainder of the league campaign would leave the club without one of its most high-profile players during the decisive run-in.
The case also brings renewed attention to disciplinary measures intended to address alleged discriminatory or abusive conduct in Brazilian football. The reference to the “Vinícius Júnior rule” has placed the incident within a wider debate about how such cases should be handled and punished.
For Neymar, Wednesday’s hearing could prove decisive. While he has admitted that his gesture was inappropriate, he continues to deny making the alleged remark that sparked the confrontation.
The tribunal’s ruling will determine whether the incident results in a further suspension and how much of Santos’ remaining campaign the forward could miss.
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