In Memoriam: Pelé (1940-2022)
Brazilian soccer legend and three-time World Cup winner Edson Arantes do Nascimento, best known as Pelé, died on December 29, 2022. He became an ambassador for the sport around the world, racking up repeated visits to the White House, where he kicked around with U.S. Presidents—always while wearing a suit. Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama met him during visits to Brazil. The soccer superstar died in Brazil at age 82.
President Ronald Reagan participates in a soccer demonstration for children with legendary Brazilian player Edson Arantes do Nascimento, best known as Pelé, and U.S. Men's National Team player Steve Moyers in the Rose Garden on October 14, 1982. View in the National Archives Catalog.
President William J. Clinton kicking a soccer ball in front of former professional soccer player Pelé at Mangueira School in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, on October 15, 1997. Photo by Ralph Alswang. View in the National Archives Catalog.
President Gerald R. Ford juggling a soccer ball to Pelé’s amusement on June 28, 1975, in the Rose Garden at the White House. View in National Archives Catalog.
President Ronald Reagan with soccer player Pelé and President Sarney of Brazil during a state dinner in the Blue Room on September 10, 1986. View in National Archives Catalog.
Pelé autographs a soccer ball for President Richard M. Nixon as his wife and the President look on, May 8, 1973. Photo by Oliver Atkins. View in National Archives Catalog.
President Gerald R. Ford watching Pelé Head a Soccer Ball in the Rose Garden, June 28. 1975. View in the National Archives Catalog.
Jimmy Carter with Pelé at the White House, March 28, 1977. Photos by Bill Fitz-Patrick. View in the National Archives Catalog.