Brazilian tributes to football legend Pelé on the one-year anniversary of his death.
Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer Illuminated
On December 29, 2023, Brazilians paid tribute to Pelé, the three-time World Cup winner who passed away at the age of 82 due to colon cancer. In Rio de Janeiro, a ceremony at the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue featured a projection of a Brazil shirt with Pelé’s name and number 10, along with a message from Pope Francis.
Religious Ceremonies and FIFA Tribute
Additional religious ceremonies took place at the Museu Pelé in Santos and in Tres Corações, where Pelé was born. Santos FC also held a tribute at its Vila Belmiro Stadium, where Pelé’s son released 10 white balloons. FIFA paid respects with a video highlighting Pelé’s legacy.
Dictionary Tribute and Legacy
The Michaelis dictionary recently chose to honor Pelé by adding his name as an adjective to describe someone as “exceptional, incomparable, unique.” Pelé’s impact on Brazilian football and his prolific scoring with Santos FC and the Brazil national team solidified his legacy.
Pelé’s memory continues to inspire new generations as his impact goes beyond the world of sports.
For more information, visit Brasil.gov.
