Neymar avoids massive fine in Brazil for environmental damage after building a lake at his mansion

The controversy arose when an initial complaint regarding an environmental crime was reported to Mangaratiba City Hall. This complaint stemmed from a video Neymar posted on his Instagram account, which allegedly showcased the artificial lake being built on his property situated in Mangaratiba, a town on the southern coast of Rio.

Multiple agencies, including the local attorney general's office, the state civil police, and environmental protection bodies, investigated Neymar's case. However, a ruling from Judge Adriana Ramos de Mello quashed the fine and charges as a report from the state environmental authority INEA mentioned that the construction project did not require special environmental permits.

Judge Adriana Ramos de Mello stated: "As the applied fines were in the millions of dollars, continuing to demand (payment)… will inflict substantial, disproportionate and even illegal prejudice”.

The town council in Mangaratiba had issued four fines totalling 16 million reais ($3.3m/£2.6m) for environmental violations related to the construction of the artificial lake at Neymar's mansion. These violations included unauthorised construction work, diversion of river water, and removal of land and vegetation. However, the judge sided with the findings of the INEA, which concluded that no environmental license was necessary for the activities undertaken by Neymar. Consequently, the alleged infractions were deemed nonexistent.

Neymar acquired the Mangaratiba mansion in 2016 and, according to Brazilian media reports, the property boasts luxurious amenities such as a heliport, spa and gym. The injured Brazilian forward has reportedly rejoined his Al-Hilal team-mates ahead of the Saudi Super Cup final against Al-Ittihad to boost their morale from the sidelines.