Neymar Santos Jr., a prominent Brazilian athlete, has acquired the rights to iconic footballer Pele’s brand through his father’s company, NR Sports. The announcement was made on Tuesday at the Pele Museum in Santos, a coastal city in Brazil known for the legendary player.
Neymar Santos Sr., owner of NR Sports, expressed pride in reaching this milestone. “I think it’s a very strong brand. We want to enhance its identity and bring it into the present,” he said.
Details of the purchase were not disclosed due to confidentiality agreements with the previous owner, US-based Sport 10. However, Brazilian media reported the deal was worth $18 million.
Pele, born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, is widely regarded as, arguably, the greatest football player of
all time. He led Brazil to three World Cup victories in 1958, 1962, and 1970. Although he passed away in December 2022, his daughter Flavia attended the ceremony marking the change in ownership.
“There are no words to describe the emotion of bringing back a brand that embodies soul, humanity, and love. It’s priceless… as his daughter, I feel honoured and happy,” Flavia told AFP.
NR Sports described the acquisition as a “repatriation” of “one of the greatest symbols in the history of global sport.” The company emphasised that this move is crucial for preserving, expanding, and enriching the legacy of the King of Football.
With AFP Inputs
