Brazil unites in tribute: One year since the passing of Football Legend Pelé

Brazil came together to honor the first anniversary of the passing of football legend Pelé, who succumbed to colon cancer on December 29, 2022, at the age of 82. The commemorations spanned across key locations in the country, including Santos, where Pelé’s illustrious career commenced, Rio de Janeiro, and widespread expressions on social media.

In Santos, a poignant mass was conducted at the museum dedicated to Pelé’s iconic journey, culminating in a mausoleum that now serves as his final resting place.

The Santos football club, exclusive to Pelé’s legacy, paid tribute through a video and photo captioned, «One year without Edson, but Pelé is eternal».

Edinho, one of Pelé’s seven children, released a dozen white balloons from the Santos stadium, a symbolic gesture captured in images disseminated by the club.

Despite the club’s recent relegation to the second division – a historic first – the commemoration persisted.

Rio de Janeiro witnessed a significant ceremony at the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, adorned in the vibrant hues of the Brazilian flag.

Pope Francis conveyed a message, emphasizing Pelé’s enduring influence on future generations, portraying sports as a unifying force.

Pelé’s hometown, Tres Coraçoes in Minas Gerais, hosted a reverential religious ceremony at the church of his baptism.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and FIFA also joined in paying homage to Pelé, acknowledging his unparalleled stature as the greatest footballer of all time, with stadiums worldwide proudly bearing his name.

FIFA marked the anniversary through a poignant social media post, reflecting, «A year ago, we bid farewell to a legend».