Brazilian football legend, Pelé’s global brand has officially been taken over by the family of Neymar Jr, another of the country’s iconic stars.
The acquisition was made through NR Sports, the company headed by Neymar Santos Sr.
Neymar Sr revealed the purchase on Tuesday at the Pelé Museum in Santos, the coastal city forever linked to Pelé’s legendary career.
“We are proud to reach this milestone,” he said, stressing that Pelé’s name remains “a very strong brand” with immense worldwide appeal. “We want to enhance its identity and bring it into the present.”
While the exact details remain confidential, reports in the Brazilian press suggest the transaction cost approximately USD 18 million.
Until now, the rights had been held by U.S.-based firm Sport 10.
Pelé, born Edson Arantes do Nascimento and considered one of football’s all-time greats, captured three World Cup titles for Brazil in 1958, 1962 and 1970.
Although he passed away in December 2022, his legacy still commands deep respect around the world.
His daughter, Flavia, was present for the ceremony formalising the transfer.
“There are no words to describe the emotion of bringing back a brand that is the soul, humanity, and love. It’s priceless… as his daughter, I feel honoured and happy,” she told AFP.
NR Sports described the deal as a “repatriation” of “one of the greatest symbols in the history of global sport”, calling it a major step toward preserving and growing Pelé’s legacy for generations to come.
