Environmental Violation: Neymar Slapped with $3 Million Fine for Digging Lake on Property
Neymar Slapped with $3.3 Million Fine for Constructing Lake at Mansion, Violating Environmental Regulations
Brazilian authorities have imposed a hefty penalty on football star Neymar, with a prosecutor fining him 16 million reais ($3.3 million) for constructing a lake at his mansion near Rio de Janeiro, which resulted in violations of environmental regulations.
The council secretariat issued a statement confirming the fines, stating, “The town council in Mangaratiba issued four fines for environmental violations in the construction of an artificial lake at the player’s mansion.” The total sum of the sanctions exceeds 16 million reais, as outlined by the prosecutor’s office in Mangaratiba, a tourist area situated approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) from Rio, where Neymar’s mansion is located.
Among the numerous infractions discovered, authorities listed violations such as “carrying out work subject to environmental control without authorization,” capturing and diverting river water without permission, and “removal of land and suppression of vegetation without authorization.”
Neymar has the option to appeal the penalty within 20 days. Initially, the amount was set at five million reais, nearly one million dollars.
On June 22, after receiving complaints through social media posts, authorities identified several environmental violations at Neymar’s luxury property, where workers were constructing an artificial lake and beach. Following the discovery, authorities cordoned off the site and ordered a halt to all activities. However, Brazilian media reported that Neymar hosted a party at the location and even took a dip in the lake.
Currently, Neymar is in the process of recovering from surgery on his right ankle, which he underwent in Doha in March. The striker has been sidelined since February, and speculation has arisen regarding his future with PSG.
Neymar acquired the Mangaratiba mansion in 2016. According to Brazilian media reports, the property spans 10,000 square meters (107,000 square feet) and includes amenities such as a heliport, spa, and gym.
