Show has already begun — Neymar arrived at national team camp by helicopter!?

Brazil’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup officially got underway on Wednesday, with Neymar making the most eye-catching arrival of the day. The forward was the last member of the squad to report to camp, touching down at Granja Comary in his private helicopter.

The Selecao gathered in Teresopolis to begin training ahead of the tournament, and Neymar chose to avoid the region’s notorious traffic by flying directly to the national team complex, as reported by Marca.

The helicopter itself drew plenty of attention. Neymar arrived in a customized Airbus H145 inspired by the Batmobile, an aircraft reportedly worth around US$13 million. Due to intense congestion in the area, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) also arranged helicopter transport for several other players traveling from Rio de Janeiro to the training base. According to the federation, the goal was to avoid delays and reduce potential risks during transportation.

Before linking up with the squad, Neymar briefly addressed concerns surrounding his right calf injury. While attending Santos’ 3-0 Copa Sudamericana victory over Deportivo Cuenca on May 26, the Brazilian star downplayed the issue, saying: "It's still here, intact."

Asked if the injury could impact his participation at the World Cup, Neymar responded with a short answer: "What problem?"

Despite the player’s confidence, ESPN reports that Brazil’s medical staff are taking a careful approach with his recovery. The forward is expected to follow an individualized training schedule and could sit out the upcoming friendly matches while continuing to regain full fitness.

By Wednesday, 23 of the 26 selected players had arrived at camp. Arsenal duo Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli, together with Paris Saint-Germain captain Marquinhos, are expected to join the squad after the Champions League final on May 30.

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The opening day of camp included medical evaluations and fitness assessments before the team held a private afternoon training session. Under Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil will face Panama at the Maracana on May 31 before taking on Egypt in Cleveland on June 6.

Following those matches, Brazil will head to the 2026 World Cup, where they have been placed in Group C alongside Scotland, Haiti and Morocco.