Brazilian football legend Pelé (1940-2022), whose death was announced in December, inspired countless fans with his skills on the pitch. But his contribution to the off-the-pitch business of football is by no means less impressive.
Following his retirement from the New York Cosmos in 1977, Pelé ran his own company, Pelé Sports and Marketing.
It wasn’t uncommon for retired footballers to take on another job when Pelé first went into business – players weren’t paid the large sums they are today – but Pelé’s success was unusual in terms of scope and recognition, both at home and abroad.
