Gianni Infantino, FIFA’s president, has stated that FIFA will ask all countries to name a stadium to honor the late football legend Pele.

, a former Santos FC star and widely regarded among the greatest footballers ever, died on 29 Dec at 82, after a long battle with colon cancer.

Mr. Infantino is currently in Brazil to attend Pele‘s funeral. He told reporters that he would ask all countries to name a football stadium with the name Pele.

Rio de Janeiro abandoned plans to name the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro after it was vetoed April 2021 by the state governor.

On Monday, the football legend’s coffin was buried in the Vila Belmiro stadium of Santos, his hometown. This is the same ground where he scored many of his greatest goals.

On the death of Pele, Mr Infantino issued the following statement: “For all who love the beautiful game. This is the day that we never wanted to be here.” Pele’s death was the day we all lost him.”

Pele, who was actually Edson Arantes Do Nascimento, was described by him as an “exemplary sportman” and added that “Pele had magnetic presence and when you were with them, the rest stopped.”

His life is more than just football. His impact on Brazil, South America and the rest of the world changed perceptions. It is difficult to summarize his legacy in words.

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On Monday, he also said to journalists: “I’m here with a lot emotion, sadness, and a smile because he made us smile so many times.” We will pay tribute to the King as FIFA and ask that the entire world observe a minute silence.

Meanwhile, mourners started paying their respects for Pele as they marched past Vila Belmiro’s coffin, decorated with Brazilian flags, and a number 10 shirt that Pele wore when he played for Santos in Brazil.

After being left by the mourners, bouquets of flowers filled the stands. They were also sent by star players and clubs – such as Neymar or Ronaldo – from all over the globe.

Loudspeakers played Eu Sou Pele (I Am Pele), a song that was also recorded by the football superstar himself.

His funeral was held at 10am local time. The burial will be on Tuesday.