Felix Brych, a former top-level referee, has opened up on how he used to manage Neymar’s infamous play-acting, calling the Brazilian’s dives “legendary” — and revealing why he often chose to let play continue.
Neymar may be one of the most dazzling footballers of his generation, but his reputation for diving has also followed him throughout his career — and one former Champions League referee has now weighed in.
Veteran German official Felix Brych, known for taking charge of high-stakes European and international fixtures, has revealed how he learned to manage Neymar’s dramatic reactions during matches. Speaking in an interview with Focus, Brych didn’t hold back in labeling the Brazilian forward’s antics as “legendary.”
Neymar was practically legendary, and certainly not without reason, Brych said. The more his face contorted in pain, the more calmly I let the game play out. A player in real pain falls to the ground immediately — he doesn’t roll around the pitch for ages.
From his early days at Santos to global stardom with Barcelona and PSG, Neymar has thrilled fans with his flair, skill, and goals. But just as famous as his footwork is his theatrical flair when going to ground — particularly in World Cup appearances for Brazil.
While VAR has made it harder to win fouls through simulation in modern football, Brych says Neymar’s diving skills were once unmatched, forcing officials to make mental adjustments during matches.
Neymar has often defended himself against accusations of diving, stating that his playing style — full of dribbles and tricks — makes him a frequent target for harsh tackles. He’s also pointed to his injury record as evidence that many of the fouls he suffers are legitimate.
They will never understand,” Neymar once said, responding to criticism. “You can’t know what it’s like out there unless you’ve lived it.
Now 33, Neymar is back where it all began — at Santos — though his return to Brazil hasn’t been all smiles. The former PSG star is currently battling relegation with his boyhood club in the 2025 Brasileirao campaign, far from the European spotlight where his diving theatrics once stirred constant debate.
