The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has, in a missive, expressed its distress occasioned by the passing of football great King Pele – Edson Arantes do Nascimento – which occurred on December 29th, 2022.
The GFF missive has said: “On behalf of the GFF and the entire football family, please accept our heartfelt condolences. During this period of sorrow, our thoughts are with his family and close friends.”
Pele’s impact on football throughout the world is witnessed by the outpouring of love since the announcement of his death. A legend, a leader, and a global ambassador, he was a man of firsts, being the only player to win the FIFA World Cup three times: in 1958, 1962 and 1970; the youngest player to participate in a World Cup; and Brazil’s joint top scorer with 77 goals.
The football giant’s visit to Guyana in 2009 inspired a new generation of players. The stories told about the former Santos and New York Cosmos striker’s life during his 20-year career will continue to influence future generations.
GFF President Wayne Forde, in sharing on the loss of the football legend, said: “King PELE was God’s gift to mankind. He was loved by all, and will continue to be the ultimate benchmark for skill and grace on the pitch. He was widely admired for taking on a greater role, as football’s global ambassador and standard-bearer of the high expectations of football players, on and off the pitch. His legendary career and lasting influence on the beautiful game will surely endure well beyond the touch-line of his life time. May his soul rest in peace.”
