Paris Saint-Germain football star, Neymar has been slapped with a hefty fine of 16 million reais (£2.6m/$3.3m) for constructing a lake at his mansion in Brazil.
WHAT HAPPENED?
On June 22, it came to light that the 31-year-old was being investigated by the local council in Mangaratiba, a coastal town near Rio de Janeiro, for various “irregularities” in a grand construction project.
Construction work was halted at that time, and Neymar is now facing the consequences for not adhering to planning regulations and carrying out building activities without the necessary permits.
WHAT THEY SAID
The council issued a statement regarding the matter, stating that four fines have been imposed for “environmental violations in the construction of an artificial lake at the player’s mansion.” It further highlighted that numerous infractions had been identified, including Neymar undertaking “environmentally regulated work without authorization,” as well as unauthorized land excavation, vegetation removal, and alteration of water sources without proper documentation.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Neymar has faced criticism through social media posts, with his mansion site being cordoned off and construction work coming to a halt. Despite this, reports suggest that he has still visited the site and even hosted a party, but repercussions are now being enforced.
WHAT NEXT?
Neymar, who has been out of action for PSG since February due to ankle surgery, acquired the property in question in 2016.
The mansion, boasting amenities like a spa and helipad, reportedly sits on a vast 10,000 square metre plot.