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Why Is Neymar Not Playing Tonight for Santos vs Flamengo?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Emmanuel Mendez | Last updated Apr 5, 2026 4:08 PM ET

Santos FC will be playing against Flamengo at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Santos will be the away team and will play against one of the teams that are unbeaten at home.

Santos will look to get their third win of the season after beating Remo 2-0 at home a few days ago. Neymar played the full game against Remo and provided an assist for Thaciano.

However, Neymar will not play against Flamengo tonight in the Brasileirão. Neymar did not come off injured after the game against Remo.

Neymar Junior of Santos fights for the ball with Leonel Picco of Remo during the Brasileirao 2026 match between Santos and Remo at Estadio Urbano Caldeira on April 2, 2026 in Santos, Brazil. (Photo by Ricardo Moreira/Getty Images)Photo by Ricardo Moreira/Getty Images

Neymar received a yellow card in the 86th minute after an altercation with Diego Hernandez, who fouled the Brazilian player. Due to the yellow card, Neymar is suspended for the match against Flamengo tonight.

It is Neymar's third yellow card of the Brasileirao, after playing four games for Santos this season.

How Long is Neymar Suspended For?

Neymar is currently only suspended for the match against Flamengo tonight due to the accumulation of yellow cards he has so far this season.

Neymar will be available to play for Santos against Atlético Mineiro next weekend. However, due to Neymar's comments towards the referee after the match against Remo, the Brazilian star could potentially see a 12-match ban for homophobic remarks.

A decision has not been made if Neymar will potentially receive a 12-match ban for Santos, but as of now, he is only suspended for the match tonight against Flamengo.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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