As Pele embarked on his final journey through the streets of Santos, it was again impossible not to be taken back by the scale of adoration for one of the greatest footballers of all time.
The five days since the three-time World Cup winner died, aged 82, have reminded everyone that “The King” was more than just a player. He was the game’s first transcendent star, a man who altered the worldwide impression of his country and brought joy to millions.
And here, on his final journey, there was one more outpouring of grief. But there was also a celebration of his life, a chance to remember some of those glorious moments and, potentially, even heal some of the fractures this country has sustained following a divisive election campaign.
