Footballer Neymar Jr. used a gesture during the election day in São Paulo that was interpreted as support for Flávio Bolsonaro, one of the presidential candidates in Brazil. By showing the number 22 with his fingers, associated with Bolsonaro’s candidacy, he sparked controversy and discussion on social media.
On Sunday, when going to vote, Neymar was captured on video raising two fingers alongside a companion, forming the number 22, which is the symbol of Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former president Jair Bolsonaro and candidate for the country’s presidency. This gesture was repeated after casting his vote, while stating he had fulfilled his civic duty. The footballer’s companion also displayed a sticker for deputy candidate Matheus Coimbra, who belongs to the same Liberal Party (PL) as Flávio.
The video was posted by Neymar on Instagram and quickly sparked widespread debate about its political meaning. The footballer was heading to vote with his companion and commented in a relaxed tone: “I came to vote and there was no one here. Isn’t that right, Cris? I came at the best time. Four-thirty in the afternoon, Peixão (Santos) jersey.” Afterwards, he showed the number identifying Bolsonaro in the presidential election.
Background and Political Context
Neymar had already expressed his support for Jair Bolsonaro in 2022 during his bid for re-election, which he lost against Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. However, the relationship between the forward and the current president Lula has not been free of public tensions. In June, when Neymar was dealing with an injury that kept him from playing during the World Cup call-up, Lula ironically referred to his absence by calling him the first player on “remote work” summoned to the World Cup.
This comment provoked a reaction from Bolsonaro’s camp, which released an artificial intelligence video showing Neymar training alone, in a narrative suggesting abandonment by his national team teammates. This reflects the media and political dimensions surrounding the Brazilian footballer, who is one of the most expensive transfers in football history, with a fee of 222 million euros.
Practical Impact for Brazil and the Region
Neymar’s gesture not only generates media attention but also affects the perception of a highly influential sports figure both inside and outside Brazil. The player’s lack of neutrality could influence the opinions of young voters or football fans who see Neymar as a cultural reference.
For residents and travelers in Brazil, the outcome of this presidential election, which will go to a runoff on October 25 between Flávio Bolsonaro and Lula, will determine the country’s political direction and its international relations within Latin America. While the gesture does not alter the electoral process, it highlights how public sports figures can become involved in political campaigns.
Regarding voter participation, none of the other ten remaining candidates succeeded in advancing, leaving a polarized runoff between the two main figures.
- Neymar showed the number 22, symbol of Flávio Bolsonaro on election day.
- Flávio Bolsonaro will compete in the second round against Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on October 25.
- Neymar is one of the sports figures with the greatest political recognition in Brazil.
- 2022: Neymar publicly supported Jair Bolsonaro’s re-election.
- The video with the gesture quickly went viral on social media, sparking debate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What gesture did Neymar make that was interpreted as political support?
He showed the number 22 with his fingers, which is the symbol of Flávio Bolsonaro’s presidential candidacy in Brazil.
What is the prior relationship between Neymar and Bolsonaro’s political sphere?
Neymar expressed support for Jair Bolsonaro in 2022 and maintains public closeness to the Liberal Party (PL), which represents the Bolsonaro family.
What impact could this gesture have on the Brazilian elections?
Although it does not change the electoral process, it could influence public opinion, especially among young people and football fans who admire Neymar.
Source: www.infobae.com
