A “major construction” project at Brazilian football star Neymar’s mansion in Rio de Janeiro state was halted on Thursday for “environmental infractions,” which could result in a fine of some $1 million, authorities said.
The project was underway “without environmental authorization” on the Paris Saint-Germain and Brazil national team player’s luxury property in Mangaratiba, some 130 kilometers (80 miles) from Rio de Janeiro, the mayor’s office said in a statement.
The authorities, alerted by complaints posted on social media, discovered “various environmental infractions,” including the diversion of a waterway, and the unauthorized extraction of water from a river.
They also discovered unauthorized excavation and movement of earth, stones and rocks, as well as the use of beach sand without a permit.
“The next step will be to make an assessment of the irregularities found and issue a fine which, according to estimates and in view of the environmental damage caused, will not be less than five million reais (about $1 million),” the mayor’s office said.
Neymar’s representatives in Brazil have not responded to AFP’s request for comment.
The footballer’s father, Neymar da Silva Santos, was on site during the inspection and can be heard arguing with officials in a video published by authorities and carried by local media.
Neymar bought the property in 2016. According to local media, it sits on 10,000 square meters (2.5 acres) of land and includes a helipad, spa and gym.
The 31-year-old striker is currently recovering from an operation on his right ankle, which he underwent in Doha, Qatar, in March.
He has not played since February, and doubts have arisen as to whether he will remain at PSG.
World Cup News
-
FIFA World Cup
/ 1 month agoVinicius says Spain should lose 2030 World Cup unless racism declines
Brazilian striker Vinicius Junior has called for Spain to be stripped of its 2030...
By AFP -
FIFA World Cup
/ 3 months agoRights groups demand release of jailed Qatar World Cup ex-staffer
Human rights groups on Wednesday called for the release of Abdullah Ibhais, a former...
By AFP -
FIFA World Cup
/ 3 months agoNew Jersey governor says 2026 World Cup will be ‘incredibly safe’
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy on Sunday promised the 2026 World Cup will be...
By AFP -
FIFA World Cup
/ 5 months agoSaudi oil giant Aramco agrees major FIFA sponsorship deal
Saudi Arabia’s state oil giant Aramco and world football governing body FIFA on Thursday...
By AFP