Gianni Infantino wants to pay Pelé a lasting tribute. The FIFA president announced on Monday that he will ask the international football federations to name a stadium after the legendary Brazilian soccer player who passed away last Thursday as a result of cancer.
At the Santos club's Vila Belmiro stadium, where the "roi" began his career, Infantino gathered in front of the spotlight of one of the greatest footballers in history.
He stressed "the value of idol for sport" in a press statement, adding that he would ask "all Fifa member countries to name at least one stadium in honor of the former player."
"We watch this funeral with a great deal of emotion, sadness, and even a smile since it brought us a great deal of joy. We will honor the "king" and request that everyone observe a moment of silence ", as he stated.
The funeral procession for Pelé started at 10 a.m. and will continue for 24 hours until his inhumation on this Tuesday. All supporters are welcome to attend the ceremony on the Vila Belmiro grounds.
Numerous hundreds of people gathered on Monday at the Santos FC stadium for the public funeral service. Before the entrance, there will be a procession through Santos' streets.