Explained: Why Neymar was left out of 980-sticker World Cup album
Neymar Omitted from Iconic Panini Sticker Album
**Neymar**, the 34-year-old Brazilian superstar, has been officially left out of the iconic **Panini** sticker album for the 2026 World Cup. This marks the first time in four editions that he will not be featured among the world's elite players.
Selection Process and Statistical Approach
The decision to exclude **Neymar** from the 980-sticker collection was confirmed by **Panini** during a launch event. According to **Raul Vallecillo**, CEO of **Panini** in Brazil, the selection is handled by a specialized team in Italy using a strict statistical approach.
- **Neymar** has been a staple of the 2014, 2018, and 2022 editions of the Panini sticker album.
- The 2026 edition features 980 stickers.
- **Neymar** did not make the cut for the 18 Brazilian spots in 2026.
"The selection is handled by a specialized team in Italy using a strict statistical approach." - **Raul Vallecillo**, CEO of **Panini** in Brazil
Impact on Brazilian Football
**Neymar** has been the face of Brazilian football for over a decade. His omission from the sticker album is a significant blow ahead of the 2026 World Cup, especially with **Carlo Ancelotti** and **Panini** involved in the project.
