FIFA President Gianni Infantino ‘appalled’ by criticism of Pele tribute selfies taken in Brazil

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Gianni Infantino said he was appalled by the criticism he received for taking selfies during a tribute to Pelé, who died aged 82.

The Brazilian soccer legend was a hero in his home country as well as to soccer fans around the world, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.

After his death from cancer in Brazil, outgoing President Jair Bolsonaro declared three days of mourning for the country.

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As part of the mourning, there was a tribute to Pelé at Belmiro in Santos, Brazil, and on the FIFA Presidents Instagram account he posted a selfie with his teammates and family.

This led to suggestions that he was acting in poor taste and using a dark event to promote himself instead of observing the atmosphere with more respect,

Infantino responded to his Instagram account on Tuesday, writing: Just landed from my trip to Brazil where I had the privilege of participating in the beautiful tribute to Pelé that took place in Vila Belmero, Santos.

“I am appalled after being informed that I am apparently being criticized by some people for taking a selfie and photos at yesterday’s ceremony.

I want to say that I was both honored and touched that teammates and family members of the great Pelé asked me if I could take some pictures with them. And of course I immediately accepted.

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