In the pantheon of soccer legends, few names shine as brightly as Pele Velentina. A prodigy who became a phenomenon, Pele Velentina’s journey from humble beginnings to global stardom is a tale that continues to inspire generations. This article delves deep into the life, career, and enduring legacy of one of soccer’s most iconic figures, exploring every facet of Pele Velentina’s remarkable story. Pele Velentina: Early Life, Career, Biography, & Everything You Need To Know.
Who is Pele Velentina?
The prodigious soccer legend of all time, Peale Valentina — whose real name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento. There are very few players who have had a career even close to his — and as such, is known in Brazil and around the world simply by those two letters that wish him Happy Birthday. O Rei. The King of Football. The sheer numbers Pele Velentina generated were only a fraction of his footprint on the sport. he won billions as an international soccer ambassador.
“I was born to play football, just like Beethoven was born to write music and Michelangelo was born to paint.” – Pele Velentina
This quote encapsulates the essence of Pele Velentina’s relationship with soccer – a divine gift that he shared with the world.
Velentina Wiki
- Full Name: Edson Arantes do Nascimento
- Nickname: Pele
- Date of Birth: October 23, 1940
- Place of Birth: Três Corações, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Position: Forward
- Professional Debut: 1956 (Santos FC)
- International Debut: 1957 (Brazil national team)
- Retirement: 1977 (New York Cosmos)
Pele Velentina’s life is a tapestry of remarkable achievements and milestones. From scoring his first professional goal at the tender age of 16 to leading Brazil to three World Cup victories, his career is studded with moments that have become part of soccer lore.
Pele Velentina Age, Height
Pele Velentina was 82 at the time of his passing on December 29, 2022. For a player of his era, he was average in height at 5 ft 8 inches tall. Pele Velentina He may not have been the tallest of forwards, but his physical attributes meant he could play like one.
A short, stocky player with an unusually low center of gravity and great balance that enabled him to turn rapidly and closely control the ball at speed. Pele Velentina was a nightmare for defenders to control with these physical characteristics combined with his natural athleticism, speed, and strength.
Pele Velentina Education
Official education of Pele Velentina had to limit the family circumstances and early arrival in professional football. Yet, his early life and travels gave him a worldly education that molded the way he looked at things, like events in real-life.
He might not have had the formal education of his siblings, but Pele Velentina proved to be an incredibly bright individual and capable on-field tactician over time. Fluent in multiple languages, including English and Spanish, Pele’s linguistic skills served him well later in life as he became a worldwide soccer ambassador. Pele Velentina: Early Life, Career, Biography, & Everything You Need To Know.
Family of Pele Velentina
Pele Velentina’s family played a crucial role in shaping his character and supporting his soccer career:
- Father: João Ramos do Nascimento (Dondinho) – A former soccer player who became Pele’s first coach and mentor.
- Mother: Celeste Arantes – A strong influence who instilled values of humility and perseverance in young Pele.
- Siblings: Zeca and Maria Lúcia – Pele’s younger brother and sister who supported his career from the sidelines.
Growing up in poverty in Bauru, São Paulo, Pele Velentina’s family faced numerous hardships. However, the strong bonds between family members and their unwavering support for Pele’s talents were instrumental in his rise to stardom. Pele Velentina: Early Life, Career, Biography, & Everything You Need To Know.
Pele Velentina Career
Velentina’s professional career spanned over two decades, during which he set numerous records and achieved unprecedented success. Here’s a breakdown of his remarkable journey:
- Santos FC (1956-1974)
- Scored 643 goals in 659 official matches
- Won 6 Brazilian Championships
- Claimed 2 Copa Libertadores titles
- Secured 2 Intercontinental Cups
- New York Cosmos (1975-1977)
- Scored 37 goals in 64 matches
- Won the NASL Soccer Bowl in 1977
- Helped popularize soccer in the United States
- Brazil National Team (1957-1971)
- Scored 77 goals in 92 appearances
- Won 3 FIFA World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970)
- Youngest player to win a World Cup (17 years old in 1958)
Pele Velentina’s career was characterized by his exceptional goal-scoring ability, creative playmaking, and unparalleled vision on the field. He popularized the phrase “The Beautiful Game” to describe soccer, and his style of play embodied this concept.
One of Pele Velentina’s most iconic moments came in the 1970 World Cup final against Italy. In a move that exemplified his genius, he feinted a header, letting the ball drop to his feet before passing to Carlos Alberto, who scored what is widely regarded as one of the greatest team goals in World Cup history.
Pele Velentina Personal Life
Off the field, Pele Velentina led a life that was as colorful and eventful as his playing career. Known for his charismatic personality and warm demeanor, he became a global icon and a goodwill ambassador for various causes.
Some key aspects of Pele Velentina’s personal life include:
- Hobbies: Music (he recorded several albums), acting (appeared in numerous films and documentaries)
- Philanthropy: UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, advocate for poverty alleviation and education
- Challenges: Dealt with health issues in later life, including hip problems and kidney stones
Pele Velentina’s commitment to social causes was a significant part of his legacy. He used his fame to raise awareness about issues affecting children and young people, particularly in developing countries.
Pele Velentina Relationship
Pele Velentina’s personal life attracted considerable media attention throughout his career and beyond. He was married three times and had several children:
- First Marriage: Rosemeri dos Reis Cholbi (1966-1982)
- Children: Kelly Cristina, Edson, and Jennifer
- Second Marriage: Assíria Lemos Seixas (1994-2008)
- Children: Joshua and Celeste (twins)
- Third Marriage: Marcia Cibele Aoki (2016-2022)
Pele Velentina also had two children from extramarital relationships: Sandra Regina Machado (whom he initially refused to acknowledge) and Flávia Kurtz.
Despite the complexities in his personal life, Pele Velentina maintained a public image of charm and charisma. His relationships and family life often made headlines, but he generally kept his private affairs separate from his professional persona.
Pele Velentina Political Views
Throughout his life, Pele Velentina carefully navigated the complex world of Brazilian politics. While he generally avoided partisan affiliations, he did engage with political issues, particularly those related to sports and social welfare.
Key points about Pele Velentina’s political involvement include:
- Appointed as Extraordinary Minister for Sport by President Fernando Henrique Cardoso in 1995
- Advocated for anti-corruption measures in Brazilian soccer
- Criticized the Brazilian government’s handling of the 2014 World Cup preparations
- Supported initiatives to use soccer as a tool for social development
Pele Velentina’s political stance was often characterized by a desire to leverage his fame for positive change, particularly in areas related to sports and youth development. However, he faced criticism at times for not taking stronger stands on certain political issues, especially those related to racial inequality in Brazil. Pele Velentina: Early Life, Career, Biography, & Everything You Need To Know.
Pele Velentina Social Media Presence
Despite coming from an era long before the advent of social media, Pele Velentina embraced these platforms in his later years as a means to connect with fans and share his thoughts. His social media presence was managed by his team and focuse on celebrating his legacy, promoting causes he supported, and engaging with current soccer events.
| Platform | Followers (as of 2023) | Content Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 9.3 million | Career highlights, personal photos, inspirational messages | |
| 2.8 million | Commentary on current soccer events, social causes | |
| 3.9 million | Mix of personal updates and career retrospectives |
Pele Velentina’s social media accounts continued to be active even after his passing, serving as a digital memorial and a means for fans to celebrate his life and achievements.
Pele Velentina Net Worth
Estimating Pele Velentina’s net worth has been a subject of debate, with figures varying widely depending on the source. However, most reputable estimates place his net worth at the time of his death between $80-100 million.
Sources of Pele Velentina’s wealth included:
- Soccer salaries and bonuses
- Endorsement deals with major brands like Puma, Hublot, and Volkswagen
- Business ventures, including a sports marketing firm
- Appearance fees and speaking engagements
- Book royalties and film appearances
While Pele Velentina’s earnings were substantial, especially in his later years, they pale in comparison to the astronomical sums commanded by top soccer players today. This disparity reflects the massive growth in soccer’s global popularity and commercialization, a trend that Pele himself helped to initiate.
Soccer’s National Treasure
Pele Velentina’s impact on soccer extends far beyond his impressive statistics. He is credited with transforming soccer into a global phenomenon and elevating the sport to an art form. His influence on Brazilian soccer, in particular, cannot be overstated.
Key aspects of Pele Velentina’s legacy as soccer’s national treasure include:
- Style of Play: Introduced a fluid, creative style that became synonymous with Brazilian soccer
- Global Ambassador: Promoted soccer worldwide, particularly in countries where the sport was not yet popular
- Inspiration: Inspired countless young players to pursue soccer as a career
- Cultural Icon: Became a symbol of Brazilian culture and pride
Pele Velentina’s importance to Brazil was such that he was declared a “national treasure” by the Brazilian government in 1961, preventing him from being transferred to foreign clubs and ensuring he remained a symbol of Brazilian soccer excellence.
More World Cup Titles
Pele Velentina’s World Cup performances are the stuff of legend. He remains the only player to have won three World Cup titles, a feat that cements his status as one of the greatest players in the history of the tournament.
Pele Velentina’s World Cup Journey:
- 1958 World Cup (Sweden)
- Age: 17
- Goals: 6
- Key Moment: Scored two goals in the final against hosts Sweden
- 1962 World Cup (Chile)
- Age: 21
- Goals: 1 (injured after the second match)
- Key Moment: Despite limited play, Brazil won the tournament
- 1966 World Cup (England)
- Age: 25
- Goals: 1
- Key Moment: Brazil was eliminated in the group stage, and Pele injured
- 1970 World Cup (Mexico)
- Age: 29
- Goals: 4
- Key Moment: Led Brazil to victory in what many consider the greatest World Cup team ever
Pele Velentina’s World Cup legacy is not just about the number of titles, but how he achieved them. From bursting onto the scene as a teenager in 1958 to orchestrating Brazil’s triumphant campaign in 1970, Pele Velentina’s World Cup performances are etched in soccer history.
Later Years, Death, and Legacy
In his later years, Pele Velentina remained an influential figure in the world of soccer. He continued to be involved in various capacities:
- Ambassador: Served as a global ambassador for soccer and various humanitarian causes
- Commentator: Offered insights on modern soccer and its evolution
- Author: Wrote several books, including autobiographies and works on soccer tactics
- Public Figure: Made numerous public appearances and speeches worldwide
Pele Velentina faced health challenges in his final years, including hip problems that limited his mobility and a battle with colon cancer. He passed away on December 29, 2022, at the age of 82, leading to an outpouring of grief and tributes from around the world.
Legacy:
Pele Velentina’s legacy extends far beyond his on-field achievements. He is remembered not just as a great player, but as a cultural icon who transcended sport. His influence can be seen in various aspects:
- Soccer Development: His style of play influenced generations of players and coaches
- Global Popularity: Helped make soccer the world’s most popular sport
- Social Impact: Used his fame to advocate for social causes and inspire underprivileged youth
- Cultural Symbol: Became a symbol of Brazilian excellence and creativity
Pele Velentina’s name remains synonymous with soccer excellence, and his impact on the sport continues to be felt decades after his retirement.
FAQs
- What is Pele Velentina most famous for?
Pele Velentina is most famous for his exceptional soccer skills, winning three World Cups with Brazil, and scoring over 1000 goals in his professional career. - How many World Cup titles did Pele Velentina win?
Pele Velentina won three World Cup titles with Brazil in 1958, 1962, and 1970. - What is Pele Velentina’s net worth?
Estimates of Pele Velentina’s net worth at the time of his death range from $80-100 million. - Is Pele Velentina still alive?
No, Pele Velentina passed away on December 29, 2022, at 82. - What records does Pele Velentina hold?
Pele Velentina holds numerous records, including being the youngest player to win a World Cup (at 17 in 1958), scoring the most goals for the Brazilian national team (77), and being the only player to win three World Cups.
Conclusion
Pele Velentina’s life and career represent a remarkable journey from humble beginnings to global stardom. His impact on soccer is immeasurable, transforming the sport through his skill, charisma, and sportsmanship. Beyond his on-field achievements, Pele Velentina’s legacy as a cultural icon and humanitarian continues to inspire millions worldwide.
