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Pelé

The Brazilian legend known as "The King of Football" — three-time World Cup winner and one of the greatest ever; died in 2022

Deceased — Pelé — born Edson Arantes do Nascimento — is widely regarded as the greatest footballer ever and won three World Cups with Brazil. He died on 29 December 2022 at age 82; he was buried in his hometown of Santos.

Pelé, born Edson Arantes do Nascimento in 1940 in Brazil, is widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time. He won a record three FIFA World Cups with Brazil (1958, 1962, 1970) and scored more than a thousand career goals.

His dazzling skill, explosive pace and footballing genius made him a global icon long before the sport was truly international. Pelé became the sport's first global superstar, his name synonymous with football itself.

Pelé spent most of his club career at Santos in Brazil, also playing for the New York Cosmos late in his career. He died on 29 December 2022 at age 82, and was laid to rest in Santos. He is remembered as "The King of Football."

Quick facts

Born

1940, Brazil

World Cups

1958, 1962, 1970 (record)

Career goals

1,000+

Clubs

Santos, New York Cosmos

Nickname

"The King of Football"

Died

29 December 2022, age 82

Buried

Santos, Brazil

Sources

1. Pelé - Wikipedia — Wikipedia (2026-09-05)
2. Pelé dies at 82: Brazil legend's funeral and burial in Santos — India Today (2026-09-05)

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