Neymar sent off under ‘Vini Jr rule’ in Santos defeat

Brazil’s Neymar Junior was sent off under the ‘Vini Jr rule’, named after his Selecao teammate Vinicius Junior, during his side Santos’ 1-0 defeat to Bahia on Saturday.

During a confrontation with the opposing team’s midfielder Rodrigo Nestor in the second half, Neymar covered his mouth while speaking, prompting Nestor to alert the referee.

After consulting the video assistant referee (VAR), the official showed Neymar a straight red card.

The ‘Vini Jr rule’, introduced ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, requires referees to dismiss players who cover their mouths while speaking with opponents.

This rule was introduced following an incident involving Brazil forward Vinicius Junior and Argentina’s Gianluca Prestianni during a UEFA Champions League match between Real Madrid and Benfica in February 2026.

Neymar had already received a yellow card in the first half following another confrontation with Nestor. He is set to miss two matches, one for the yellow-card suspension and another for the red card.

Neymar appeared to attempt to confront Nestor physically as he left the pitch.