Simply unbelievable! Neymar sent off under the 'Vini Jr law'

In an astonishing turn of events during a Saturday night match, Brazilian football sensation Neymar was sent off under a new rule known as the "Vini Jr Law". The incident occurred during Santos' 1-0 defeat to Bahia at Vila Belmiro stadium in São Paulo. After halftime, Neymar, the star midfielder from Santos, was seen taunting Rodrigo Nestor, the Bahia midfielder. This taunting continued unabated as play resumed on the field.

Neymar then covered his mouth while arguing with Nestor, an act which led to him receiving a red card under the Vini Jr Rule. The rule, effective from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, mandates that anyone who covers their mouth while arguing with an opponent should be sent off. It was a response to racist abuse Neymar received from Gianluca Prestianni during a Champions League match against Benfica.

Having already accumulated three yellow cards in the first half, Neymar's third card resulted in his red card. He is now banned from playing in the next two matches, one for each sanction. As he left the pitch after the altercation with Nestor, Neymar also attempted to engage in a physical confrontation with the Bahia midfielder. Neymar, in an interview with the camera, accused Nestor of playing unfairly and in bad faith. The incident sparked a wave of reactions on social media.