Brazil star Neymar believes the upcoming 2026 World Cup in Canada, the United States, and Mexico could transform the way people experience football.
With the final set to take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, next year’s tournament promises a new dimension of excitement with extra teams involved.
“You’ll see what the World Cup will be like,” Neymar said to Disney+.
“I think it’s going to be crazy! I think it could change things! It’s good for everyone!”
Neymar, a self-proclaimed NBA enthusiast, was speaking while watching Game 4 of the NBA Western Conference Finals between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Reflecting on his experiences attending basketball games in the US, Neymar praised the unique blend of sport and entertainment.
Neymar chegando com o troféu da NBA no react com a ESPN pic.twitter.com/5GI63ffkic
— Pérolas da NBA (@PerolasdaNBA) May 27, 2025
“You don’t go to a basketball game [NBA] just to watch a basketball game,” he explained. “There’s a show. There’s a break, people come out dancing. Then there’s another break, fans come out shooting hoops. Before the game, someone really famous sings the national anthem.”
This entertainment-first approach could also benefit football, according to Neymar.
“They make it worth your while to go. If you take that as a reference, it’s good for Brazil. In soccer, you have a 90-minute game and there’s nothing during halftime. Everyone goes to the stadium gates to hang out. Why not inside the stadium? Do something different?
“Entertainment can be used in many ways. And without detracting from everyone’s focus.”
Neymar is expected to feature in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup, provided they secure qualification.
Now 33 years old, Neymar has already appeared in three World Cups and holds the record as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals.
