Neymar Secures Pele's Legacy in Multi-Million Dollar Deal
In a move that bridges generations of Brazilian football greatness, Neymar Jr. and his father are set to acquire the iconic Pele brand through their company NR Sports. The landmark deal, valued at approximately $18 million (₹160 crore), represents a significant step in preserving the legacy of Brazil's most celebrated footballer.
Historic Timing and Brand Ownership Details
The official signing ceremony is scheduled for November 19, a date steeped in football history as it marks the anniversary of Pele's 1,000th goal. This strategic timing underscores the emotional and historical significance of the acquisition. According to Brazilian media outlet UOL, the transaction will transfer all brand rights from previous owner Sport 10, a US-based company that had primarily utilized the brand for event appearances.
The Pele brand had remained largely dormant since the football legend's passing in December 2022, when he succumbed to multiple organ failure resulting from colon cancer at age 82. Considered by many as the greatest footballer of all time, Pele scored 762 official goals during his illustrious career spanning from 1957 to 1977, placing him third in the all-time scoring charts behind Cristiano Ronaldo (953 goals) and Lionel Messi (895 goals).
Neymar's Vision for the Pele Brand
This acquisition signals Neymar's clear intention to revive and globalize the Pele brand while maintaining its deep connection with Santos FC. NR Sports will gain comprehensive rights to use Pele's name, image, merchandise licenses, and historic footage. The move aligns perfectly with Neymar's recent return to Santos in January, after initially leaving the club in 2013 for Barcelona.
Neymar has consistently demonstrated his commitment to honoring Pele's legacy, notably by wearing the iconic number 10 shirt for both Santos and the Brazilian national team, following in the footsteps of legendary Brazilian players like Zico, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, and Kaka. His dedication extends beyond the pitch, as he previously funded renovations for the VIP box used by Pele's family at Vila Belmiro stadium, where they continue to attend Santos matches.
World Cup Prospects and Current Challenges
While Neymar works to preserve Brazilian football history, his own career faces significant challenges. His current stint at Santos has been hampered by injuries, and the club itself struggles in the domestic league, sitting just one point above the relegation zone. More crucially, Neymar hasn't featured for the Brazilian national team in two years following an ACL injury in 2023.
Brazilian coach Carlo Ancelotti has set a clear timeline for Neymar's international future, giving him six months to prove his fitness for the 2026 World Cup. "We're now six months away from making the final list; we'll have to keep an eye on him and the others to avoid making mistakes in our final call-ups," Ancelotti stated, while acknowledging that Neymar remains under consideration for the squad.
The coach expressed confidence in Brazil's World Cup chances, noting that "everyone thinks this team has great potential. The Brazilians, the Italians... We have to work to make everyone's vision a reality at the World Cup." As Neymar navigates his personal comeback, his acquisition of the Pele brand ensures that Brazilian football's richest legacy will remain vibrant for future generations.
