A 9.5‑meter bronze figure of Brazil’s football icon Pelé was inaugurated this week in Guadalajara’s Plaza Brazil, just outside the iconic Jalisco Stadium. The monument, which dominates the surrounding plaza, was commissioned to celebrate Pelé’s legacy, particularly his role in Brazil’s 1970 World Cup triumph, a tournament hosted on Mexican soil.
A Gift to the People of Jalisco
Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus praised the statue as a gift to the people of Jalisco, emphasizing that it will become a lasting landmark that draws visitors from across the globe.
Pelé’s triumph in 1970 remains one of the most celebrated moments in football history, and the statue serves as a reminder of his enduring influence on the sport.
Guadalajara’s Stage for the 2026 World Cup
With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, Guadalajara will host four opening‑round matches. The fixtures include South Korea taking on Czech Republic, Mexico facing South Korea, Colombia meeting Congo, and Uruguay squaring off against Spain, promising a vibrant start to the tournament.