Even after decades of not playing football, he has still found a way to intertwine his beloved sport with his humanitarian endeavors. Upon retirement, he channeled his energies into promoting football, endorsing products and even became the Minister of Sport for Brazil in 1994[1]. He took this appointed position as an opportunity to become involved in politics as a means to improve conditions in his country. His method was unlike other politicians in the sense that he was not affiliated to any particular party that could distract him from doing his work, which was ultimately “to help the children.”[2] In particular, despite limited funds, he was able to establish football programs all over Brazil directed specifically to kids and amateurs as a means for social improvement, especially in an attempt to improve character education and to control delinquency. He was not afraid to take a stand, but at times felt helpless and found it frustrating to deal with the deeply rooted corruption that is typically found in Latin American governments and institutions. It is unclear as to why he resigned from this position three years later, but the fact of the matter is that even in this short amount of time, Pelé left an improved and lasting impact on the nature of Brazilian football. With the institution of the ‘Pelé Law’, football in Brazil is becoming freed from the corruption that has long surrounded the sport and which has consequently taken advantage of players over several decades.[3] In addition to treating players with more respect and ensuring that schedules are reasonable, this legislation provides more structure and opportunities to make the business of Brazilian football more honest. By cleaning up the previously mismanaged system and getting rid of money launderers, interest in club investments by both Brazilian and international investors has increased. The following article featured in the New York Times in 1999 explains these additional business benefits that have resulted since the establishment of the ‘Pelé Law.’
[1] Kirby espn.com
[2] Harris. Pele. 190.
[3] Harris. Pele. 222.
