Late Brazilian football legend Pelé’s mother, Celeste Arantes, passed away on Friday, June 21, at the age of 101. She had been in a vegetative state for the last five years and was unaware of Pele’s death in 2022. According to an official statement from the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), Arantes had been hospitalized for the past eight days. However, the cause of death is yet to be disclosed.
The Pele Foundation expressed condolences on its social media platforms after the passing of the mother of the only three-time World Cup-winning footballer. The foundation also stated that Arantes will always be remembered in their hearts and memories.
“Today’s feelings are mixed. We deeply mourn the departure of ‘Celestinha,’ as her son affectionately called her. At the same time, we are eternally grateful for her existence. Dona Celeste is the queen mother and will forever be lovingly remembered in our hearts and memories,” the foundation said.
Santos, the club where Pele spent the majority of his career, also expressed condolences to his family on the passing of Arantes.
“She had 101 years of an inspiring life story. A Black woman who faced endless adversities in life for the good of her family,” the club added.
Pelé initially faced mother’s resistance to becoming a professional footballer
Edson Arantes do Nascimento, popularly known as Pelé, is celebrated as one of the greatest players of all time. He initially faced resistance from Celeste Arantes regarding his pursuit of a professional football career.
He made his debut for the Brazil national team at the age of 16. Throughout his international career, he gained significant milestones, including victories in the FIFA World Cups in 1958, 1962, and 1970. Notably, he is the only player to hold this record and was also the youngest player to win a World Cup at the age of 17. He passed away on December 29, 2022, due to multiple organ failures stemming from colon cancer.
