Pelé's coffin to lie in state at Santos stadium, where the legend began

Pelé's coffin will be displayed on the pitch at Santos FC's Vila Belmiro stadium where he played for most of his career. REUTERS - AMANDA PEROBELLI

Just hours after Brazil's new president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was officially sworn in, the wake began on Monday for the football legend Pelé on the field at Santos FC's Vila Belmiro stadium where he played for most of his storied career.

Thousands are expected to turn up at the Vila Belmiro stadium on Monday to say their farewells.