An anonymous 31-year-old businessman from Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, has named Brazilian football star Neymar Jr. as the sole heir to his estimated $1.01 billion fortune in a legally binding will. The document, registered on June 12, 2025, at the 9th Notary Office of Porto Alegre, has ignited widespread speculation and debate across Brazil and beyond.
The businessman, who remains unidentified due to privacy concerns and ongoing health issues, is single with no children or living necessary heirs. His estate, valued at approximately R$ 6.1 billion depending on the dollar exchange rate, includes properties, investments, and company shares. The will, drafted in the presence of two witnesses and a substitute notary, complies with Brazilian succession law (Civil Code, arts. 1.857-1.861) and designates Neymar, currently 33 and playing for Santos, as the universal heir.
A Personal Connection
In an interview with local outlet GZH, corroborated by Folha de S.Paulo and Bahia Notícias, the billionaire revealed his decision stems from a deep personal admiration for the athlete. He cited Neymar’s bond with his father, Neymar Sr.—a connection that mirrors his own late father—as a key factor. The businessman also related to Neymar’s public struggles with criticism and defamation, calling the player’s lack of financial opportunism “rare in today’s world.” After failing to contact Neymar directly to donate the fortune during his lifetime, he opted for the will to ensure his assets avoid the government or estranged relatives.
Legal experts, including those consulted by UOL’s F5, confirm the will’s validity, noting the absence of necessary heirs eliminates potential disputes. However, the inheritance will only materialize upon the testator’s death, and Neymar retains the right to refuse it, which would redirect the estate to the state.
Neymar’s Response and Current Status
As of 10:24 PM GMT on September 3, 2025, Neymar’s representatives have confirmed to Folha de S.Paulo and GZH that no official notification has been received. The player, who returned to Santos in 2025 after stints with PSG and Al-Hilal, has yet to comment publicly. Neymar’s existing wealth, estimated at $1.01 billion by Sportico, stems from his Santos salary (around $500,000 for six months plus 90% of image rights), lucrative endorsements (Puma, Red Bull, Gillette, Beats), and investments via NR Sports.
Public Reaction
The news has gone viral on X, with users like @choquei and @CuriosidadesBRL racking up thousands of interactions. Reactions range from amazement to criticism, with some questioning the choice of a fellow billionaire over charitable causes. “Why give more to a multimillionaire when the poor suffer?” one user posted, while others see it as a heartfelt tribute to Neymar’s resilience.
Legal and Financial Implications
The inheritance, if accepted, will be subject to Brazil’s Imposto de Transmissão Causa Mortis e Doação (ITCMD) in Rio Grande do Sul, with a tax rate of up to 8%. The process could face delays or challenges if distant relatives emerge, though experts deem this unlikely. The case has already sparked discussions on philanthropy and celebrity influence in estate planning.
As the story unfolds, all eyes are on Neymar and the anonymous businessman, whose extraordinary gesture may redefine the intersection of sports and legacy. Updates will be provided as more details emerge.