A Brazilian court has suspended a $3 million fine levied against soccer star Neymar for constructing a lake at his mansion near Rio de Janeiro without an environmental license. The ruling, issued on Monday by Judge Adriana Ramos de Mello and obtained by AFP on Wednesday, cited a report from the state environmental authority INEA stating that the project did not require special environmental permits.

The fines, totaling 16 million reais ($3.3 million), were imposed by the town council in Mangaratiba for various environmental violations related to the construction of the lake at Neymar's property. These violations included carrying out unauthorized construction work, diverting river water without permission, and removing land and vegetation without authorization.

However, the judge's decision favored Neymar based on INEA's findings, which confirmed that no environmental license was needed for the activities in question, thus rendering the alleged infractions invalid.

Neymar purchased the Mangaratiba mansion in 2016, and reports from Brazilian media indicate that the property boasts amenities such as a heliport, spa, and gym. This legal development marks a significant reprieve for the Al Hilal SFC player, as the hefty fine has been suspended based on the court's interpretation of environmental regulations.