Pelé Museum Features Interactive Exhibit Inspired by King of Football's Farewell Speech
The Pelé Museum in Santos, São Paulo, is currently hosting an exhibition titled "Love, Love, Love," inspired by the legendary footballer Pelé's farewell speech. This permanent installation, located at Largo Marquês de Monte Alegre, s/nº, Valongo, is open to the public free of charge from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM. A key attraction is an interactive display that allows visitors to take a photograph as if they are receiving a kiss from Pelé. The exhibition, curated by artist Luis Bueno (Buenocaos), transforms Pelé's parting message into urban art, featuring dozens of posters and "lambe-lambes" depicting him with various real and imagined figures, including Muhammad Ali, Freddie Mercury, David Bowie, and Salvador Dalí. The artworks emphasize affection as central to Pelé's career and legacy, extending beyond sports. His farewell speech, originally delivered in English on October 1, 1977, before a New York Cosmos vs. Santos match at Giants Stadium in New Jersey, urged greater attention to children and youth, stating that love is the greatest legacy. The phrase "Love, Love, Love" was famously repeated by Pelé and the audience at the end of his speech, and it also inspired a 1978 song by Caetano Veloso. The exhibition's themes gained renewed international attention after a segment of Pelé's speech was broadcast during the halftime of the 2026 World Cup final, which saw Spain defeat Argentina.
This exhibition leverages the enduring global affection for Pelé to create an engaging cultural experience, transforming a pivotal personal moment into a public art installation. By focusing on themes of love and legacy, the display transcends typical sports memorabilia, positioning Pelé as a cultural icon whose influence extends beyond athletic achievement. The interactive element, while playful, serves to democratize engagement with the subject matter, inviting personal connection with a historical figure. This approach highlights a growing trend in cultural institutions to utilize technology and immersive experiences to broaden appeal and deepen audience connection, particularly relevant in an era where digital interaction is increasingly paramount.
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