Rei Pelé — Hive

The Story of King Pelé: The Boy Who Became a Legend

Edson Arantes do Nascimento was born on October 23, 1940, in Três Corações, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Son of Dona Celeste and Dondinho, a former player who inspired his child to dream big, Pelé grew up in a humble family where football was play, hope, and a universal language.

As a young boy, Pelé trained with a makeshift ball made of socks on the streets of Bauru. It was there, far from the big stadiums, that he shaped the talent that would one day move the world. At 15, he was discovered by Santos Football Club — and at 16 he was already playing as a professional, showing a brilliance no one had seen before.

In 1958, at just 17 years old, Pelé dazzled the planet at the World Cup in Sweden. He scored unforgettable goals, cried like a kid, and celebrated like a giant. That was the moment the world met the future King of Football.

With Santos, Pelé won everything: Copa Libertadores, Club World Cups, countless titles, and record-breaking achievements. But more than numbers, he carried Brazil’s name across the world with joy, respect, and magic in his feet.

He won three World Cups — 1958, 1962, and 1970 — and built a career filled with moments that inspired generations. Dribbles that defied logic, impossible goals, and a unique ability to turn the game into art.

After retiring, Pelé became a global ambassador for sports and peace. He supported social projects, represented Brazil internationally, and left a legacy that goes beyond football — touching culture, history, and humanity.

Pelé is not just a player.
He is a symbol.
A living memory.
An essential chapter in the history of Brazil and world sports.

That’s why, today and always, he is called the King.