Pele Biography

Pele is the most iconic footballer of the twentieth Century. He epitomised the flair, joy and passion the Brazilians bought to the game.

Pele's career spanned throughout the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s.

In his early career, the young and unknown Pele helped inspire Brazil to victory in the 1958 World Cup. In 1962, Brazil retained the World Cup. In 1966, Brazil were hot favourites, but, lost out to the home nation England.

His crowing glory was the Brazilian victory in the 1970 World Cup in Mexico. In this world cup, some of the football played by Brazil and Pele was sheer class. Brazil won the final 4-1 against Italy; it was a genuine advertisement for the 'beautiful game' and a fitting pinnacle of Pele's international career.

Pele went on to score over 1,000 goals in professional games. (The 1000th goal coming as a penalty in the US league sparking celebrations around the world). His strike rate in international games was one of the highest ever. In 92 appearances, he scored 77 goals.

peleIn the domestic league, Pele made his debut for Santos aged just 16. He played for Santos in the Brazilian league from until the 1972-73 season..

Pele finished his career in the lucrative US league. In 1975, he signed for New York Cosmos and played three seasons. He led the New York Cosmos to the US title in 1977 - the year of his retirement.

After retiring has gone onto be a great ambassador for football and sport in general. In 1992, Pelé was appointed a UN ambassador for ecology and the environment. He was also appointed a UNESCO goodwill ambassador. He is not only one of the most gifted footballers of his generation, but, also a mild mannered man who used his fame and prestige for a positive effect.