Full Breakdown
Neymar Apologizes to Robinho Jr. After Training-Ground Slap at Santos
5/7/2026, 11:58:06 PM
Incident Overview
During a routine training session at Santos FC’s Rei Pele Training Centre, 34-year-old forward Neymar slapped 18-year-old teammate Robinho Jr. after the teenager dribbled past him, an act the youngster called a “violent slap to the face.” Santos opened an internal investigation and later said the issue was “all sorted.” Neymar publicly apologized, saying he had overstepped and overreacted.
Background & Context
Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, returned to Santos after spells at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. Robinho Jr., a Santos youth product, is the son of former Brazil star Robinho, currently imprisoned in Brazil after a conviction in Italy for a serious criminal offence. The younger Robinho had idolised Neymar, heightening the incident’s sensitivity.
Timeline of Events
- Sunday – Training-ground clash; Robinho Jr. reports a slap.
- Following days – Santos opens an internal investigation.
- Tuesday – Club says the issue is resolved; Neymar apologises publicly before a media briefing and before Santos’ 1-1 Copa Sudamericana draw with Club Sportivo Recoleta, where he scored and embraced Robinho Jr.
Data & Statistics
- Neymar: 34, 79 international goals, out of Brazil’s squad since Oct 2023.
- Robinho Jr.: 18, training with the first team.
- Match: Santos 1-1 Recoleta; Neymar scored.
- Investigation: opened by Santos; no disciplinary details released.
Official Statements & Club Response
Santos FC confirmed the investigation and said the incident was “all sorted.” Santos reiterated that the matter had been resolved. Neymar told the media he had overstepped and regretted losing his composure. Robinho Jr. said the apology was accepted and their relationship remains intact.
Criticism & Opposition
Brazilian football observers raised concerns about the slap’s severity and the absence of disclosed disciplinary measures. The “violent slap” label sparked debate over conduct standards in elite clubs.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources disagree on what triggered the confrontation, describing details as “unclear.” Santos has not released a formal statement on sanctions, and the investigation’s findings remain unpublished. The father’s imprisonment is noted but unrelated to the incident.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If you want an apology in front of the media, here it is,” — Neymar
- “I crossed the line,” — Neymar
- “It was a situation that upset me because [Neymar] has been my idol since I was a child,” — Robinho Jr.
- “But I’m fine, I like him a lot. We’ve already talked, and it’s all sorted.” — Robinho Jr.
What’s Next
Neymar aims to regain his place in the Brazil national team ahead of the World Cup squad selection on 18 May by Carlo Ancelotti. Santos will continue its Copa Sudamericana campaign while monitoring the aftermath of the incident and any further club-level actions.
