Santos’ Neymar has become the first player since Pele in 1970 to be declared ‘hors concours’ at the end of season awards in the Brasileirão.
The accolade recognises players who have been in extrordinary form and it is the first time in 42 years that a player has been recognises this way.
Bola de Ouro winner Ronaldinho Gaúcho presented the award to the Santos star and said: “You are indeed hors concours. In the language of football, the others are riding bicycles while you are on a motorcycle.”
Neymar, who scored 42 goals in 47 appearances for his club this season, accepted the award and made a small speech to the congregration.
He said: “I have no words to describe how happy I am for receiving this award, I can only say thank you. To get this prize from the hands of an idol of mine is a reason to be very proud.”
The Brasileirão Team of the Year were also announced as recipients of the Bola de Prata award.
