Brazil's President Lula Calls Injured Neymar the First 'Home Office' World Cup Player

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva humorously referred to the injured Neymar as the first "home office" footballer to be selected for the World Cup 2026.

During an official event in Belo Horizonte, the president made the quip while responding to a child who expressed admiration for the player. Lula stated, "Neymar isn't even playing. Neymar is the world's first home office call-up." He mentioned that the term "home office footballer" came from an internet message he received.

Neymar, who has been dealing with various injuries for months, was included in the squad by coach Carlo Ancelotti. However, he missed Brazil's opening match against Morocco and did not travel to Philadelphia for the game against Haiti. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced that Neymar would remain in New Jersey to "optimize the final phase of his recovery process."

This is not the first time Lula has commented on the Brazilian team's performance or selection. Previously, he urged the coach to have players perform with "soul" and "grit." Following Brazil's draw against Morocco and Argentina's strong performance, Lula also jokingly suggested convincing Lionel Messi to play for Brazil.