Rio De Janeiro, Brazil: A Brazilian court has made the decision to suspend a hefty $3 million fine levied against soccer star Neymar for unauthorized construction at his mansion located near Rio de Janeiro. This fine, which was issued by the town council in Mangaratiba, stemmed from alleged environmental violations related to the building of an artificial lake on Neymar’s property.
The ruling, issued by Judge Adriana Ramos de Mello and dated Monday, referenced a report from the state environmental authority INEA that indicated the project did not require specific environmental permits. Judge Mello underscored that the enforcement of such significant fines could result in undue and possibly unlawful prejudice against the Al Hilal SFC player.
Among the cited violations were unauthorized construction activities subject to environmental control, the diversion of river water without appropriate authorization, and the removal of land and vegetation without proper consent.
The court’s decision to suspend the fine was based on INEA’s findings that no environmental license was needed for the activities undertaken by Neymar. This ruling effectively nullifies the town council’s penalties against the soccer star.
Neymar acquired the Mangaratiba mansion in 2016, reportedly featuring amenities like a heliport, spa, and gym, according to local Brazilian media.
