São Paulo, 29 June 2024- Just a year and a half after the death of Pelé, one of the greatest footballers in history, his once-magnificent home in São Paulo, Brazil, has fallen into disrepair and become a target for looters. The neglect of this historic property, which housed countless memories and memorabilia of the football legend, has shocked fans and the football community worldwide.

Pelé, who led Brazil to three World Cup victories, lived in an exclusive condominium in the Guarujá area of São Paulo for 40 years. This $8 million palatial home, located just a few hundred meters from the famous Pernambuco Beach, was a personal sanctuary for Pelé. Despite his global travels, this house remained his favorite retreat.

The property boasted numerous luxurious amenities, including a dozen rooms, a cinema, a swimming pool, and ample open space. Pelé even constructed his own music recording studio and a dance club where he hosted parties with friends. Sports facilities within the property included tennis and volleyball courts, a mini soccer field, and a large swimming pool. A chapel was also built to allow his mother, Celeste, to pray, reflecting the family's staunch Catholic faith.

The house was richly decorated with elegant furniture, dozens of Pelé’s football suits, countless trophies, historical photographs, expensive carpets, and various artefacts. However, since Pelé's passing on December 29, 2022, the property has been neglected. Miscreants have looted the home, stealing valuable memorabilia and causing significant damage to the property.

Images published by London's Daily Sun reveal the extent of the looting and vandalism. Stairs and walls have been demolished, furniture has been damaged, and many of Pelé's treasured football items have been stolen.

The responsibility for maintaining the house has fallen into legal and financial complications. Pelé's children, who were expected to take care of the property, have faced financial difficulties, including unpaid taxes that have accumulated over the years. The costs required to reclaim and restore the house are currently beyond their reach, leading to further deterioration and loss of the football king's legacy.

As the home continues to suffer from neglect and vandalism, the football world mourns not only the loss of Pelé but also the deterioration of a significant part of his heritage.