Thousands of fans gathered at the Vila Belmiro stadium in Santos, São Paulo state, to bid farewell to Pelé, the football icon who passed away on December 29 at the age of 82. The beloved three-time World Cup winner for Brazil was honored with a solemn vigil that stretched into the first days of January. The body was to be moved through significant local spots before resting at the Ecumenical Necropolis Memorial Cemetery, where family members awaited reunion with loved ones.
The casket lay draped in two flags, one bearing the colors of Santos, the club where Pelé spent a vast portion of his storied career, and the other the national flag of Brazil, the country he proudly represented in four World Cups. During his illustrious time with Brazil, Pelé scored 12 goals and delivered 10 assists in World Cup play, earning a place among the greatest players in the history of the game. His career tally reached 77 goals in 91 appearances for the Canarinha, a record that included seven hat tricks and a lasting impact on football culture worldwide.
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The funeral was planned as a private ceremony after a citywide procession. The route was to pass by the home of Pelé’s mother, Celeste Arantes, now at the age of 100, as part of the final tribute. The procession moved through streets with the support of military police, a gesture that echoed the immense national and international sadness and the desire to honor a figure who transcended football.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva arrived to pay respects and express condolences to the family. Accompanied by his wife, Rosângela Da Silva, and a high-level team, Lula joined mourners inside a public vigil that lasted for 24 hours. The event drew attention from leaders across the football world and beyond, all touched by Pelé’s enduring legacy.
A social media moment captured the president’s presence, highlighting the global attention Pelé’s passing attracted. Posts from public accounts and media outlets reflected the gravity of the moment, underscoring Pelé’s influence beyond his astonishing on-field achievements and his role as a symbol of Brazilian pride.
Earlier, FIFA President Gianni Infantino spoke about Pelé as a truly unique player, joined by leaders from Conmebol and the Brazilian Football Confederation. Infantino emphasized Pelé’s eternal status in football and the lasting inspiration he provides to generations. He also suggested that the world should honor Pelé by naming stadiums in every country after him, a proposal that highlighted Pelé’s universal appeal and the desire to ensure future players remember his contributions.
Pelé’s passing marked a turning point for fans around the world, as people reflected on a career that began in humble beginnings and culminated in a global legend. He passed away at Albert Einstein Hospital in São Paulo after a monthlong battle with multi-organ failure related to colon cancer diagnosed in 2021. The loss was felt deeply by sports communities, local fans, and people who admired his leadership, generosity, and joy on the pitch.
The day before the service, discussions about Pelé’s impact extended to the broader football world, including commemorations and plans to disseminate his memory in a way that continues to educate young players about excellence, teamwork, and humility. The outpouring of tributes underscored Pelé’s role as a pioneer who helped shape modern football as a global sport.
As the ceremonies progressed, fans continued to share memories, photos, and messages honoring a player whose influence reaches far beyond the stadiums where he dazzled spectators. His life and career remain a source of inspiration for athletes and fans around the world, reminding the global audience of the power of sport to unite people and spark lasting cultural change.
Source: Goal