Brazil declares Nov. 19 “King Pele Day”

Brazil declares Nov. 19 “King Pele Day”

Brazil’s legendary footballer, Pele, will be celebrated in his homeland with the establishment of “King Pele Day,” as announced in the recent government gazette.

Renowned as one of the greatest footballers in history, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, famously known as Pele, clinched three World Cups for Brazil and netted over 1,000 goals during his illustrious career.

“King Pele Day” is set to take place on November 19, commemorating the momentous occasion when Pele scored his 1,000th goal for his childhood club, Santos, at Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Maracana Stadium in 1969.

The goal was a penalty shot in a thrilling 2-1 victory against Vasco da Gama, prompting a jubilant pitch invasion by fans to honour the king’s remarkable achievement.

Hailing from Tres Coracoes, Pele dedicated this historic goal to the disadvantaged children of Brazil, embodying his commitment to helping those in need.

Additionally, in 1970, he sealed his football legacy by securing his third World Cup victory with the iconic Brazilian team.

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Following Pele’s passing on December 29, 2022, at the age of 82, Brazil mourned his loss, paying heartfelt tributes to the sporting luminary on a global scale.

The law establishing this special day was enacted by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, further solidifying Pele’s enduring impact on the world of football.