In an astounding act of devotion and legal boldness, a Brazilian billionaire—anonymous and without heirs—has named football icon Neymar as the sole beneficiary of an estimated £752 million (about $1 billion) fortune. The declaration, formalized in a will registered in June 2025, was sealed in Porto Alegre and authenticated by a notary in the presence of two witnesses.
Motivation: Admiration, Identification, and Remembrance
What prompted such a surprising choice? The businessman, now deceased and childless, professed a deep sense of personal identification with Neymar. He admired the superstar’s humility, family values, and in particular, the bond Neymar shares with his father—one that reminded him of his relationship with his own late father.
One part of the will reads: “I like Neymar, I identify with him a lot… He’s not self-serving, something rare these days.” This sentiment mirrors the heartfelt confession of a Brazilian fan who made a similar decision in 2023—albeit on a much smaller scale.
The Process: From Notary Desk to the Courts
The will was officially registered in mid-June 2025 at a notary office in Porto Alegre, with two witnesses present. However, formalization isn’t the end of the story—the matter now lies with Brazilian courts. Before any assets can be transferred, the courts must verify Neymar’s willingness to accept the inheritance and address any legal claims from family members, creditors, or state authorities.
A Windfall for a Mega-Wealthy Athlete
If carried out, this inheritance would cement one of the most extraordinary bequests in modern sports. Neymar—the superstar footballer with an already enviable net worth—would receive assets including properties, shares, and investments valued at close to a billion dollars.
Yet, this isn’t just about adding zeros to his bank account. Brazilian legal and sports commentators anticipate significant tax obligations, estate settlement procedures, and potential litigation that might extend for months or even years.
Headlines and Public Reaction
International outlets have reacted with a mix of bewilderment, intrigue, and fascination. Some headlines call it a “crazy billionaire’s will,” while others frame it as a touching—but bizarre—tribute to celebrity worship.
Notably, this isn’t the first time a fan has named a celebrity in their will. In 2023, a Brazilian fan similarly bequeathed everything to Neymar, citing the same sense of kinship and family values—even though he was already financially secure.
Why This Story Matters
This case invites us to ask challenging questions:
- What drives such extreme forms of admiration?
- How do privacy, wealth, and legal rights intersect when fan devotion hits extraordinary lengths?
- Will Neymar accept—or decline—such an overwhelming gift?
The story sits at a crossroads between human emotion, legal mechanics, and celebrity culture. It symbolizes not just the power of fame, but also the complexities of inheritance laws and public perception.
In June 2025, an anonymous Brazilian billionaire formally declared Neymar as his sole heir—a gesture rooted in admiration, identity, and personal loss. While the will stands on solid legal ground, the ultimate outcome depends on court rulings and potentially contentious legal battles. In any case, this episode stands as one of the most bizarre and compelling stories of modern celebrity and legacy.
