“Keeping it safe with me always”: Lewis Hamilton pays tribute to Pele by revealing signed Brazilian jersey he got from 3-time FIFA World Cup winner

"Keeping it safe with me always": Lewis Hamilton pays tribute to Pele by revealing signed Brazilian jersey he got from 3-time FIFA World Cup winner

The entire footballing and sporting world went into mourning earlier this week after Brazilian football legend Pele passed away at the age of 82. Tributes started pouring in from everywhere, and even F1 drivers like Lewis Hamilton joined in to pay respects to the man who changed football forever.

Hamilton has a very close connection to the country of Brazil. Over the years, he has always expressed how much he loves visiting Brazil and cites Ayrton Senna as his racing idol. Earlier this year, he was even appointed as an honorary citizen of the South American nation. When their country’s greatest-ever athlete passed away on Thursday, Hamilton took to social media to share a photo of something he received from the legendary forward.

In F1, Hamilton is considered to be one of the all-time greats. As a result, Pele sent over a signed Brazilian jersey to the Briton, congratulating him on his Title wins. Hamilton posted a photo of the former Santos player holding that jersey on his Instagram story, with the caption, “Meant so much to get it from the legend himself. Keeping it safe with me always.”

Also read: “Pierre Gasly will be a great asset”- Esteban Ocon feels new Alpine teammate won’t need time to settle into the team

Lewis Hamilton and Formula 1 pay tributes to Pele

As soon as the news of Pele’s passing away became official, there was an outpour of grief from every corner of the sporting world. The Brazilian football legend changed the game in many ways and was arguably the sport’s first-ever superstar.

“Very sad to hear the news that Pele, one of greatest footballers ever has passed away,” F1 boss Stefano Domenicali said. “He was a shining light for Brazil and millions around the world. His skill, smile, and brilliance will live on forever. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.”

In another Instagram story, Hamilton wrote, “Lost a legend today. Thank you for sharing your talent, genius, and love with us. Pele’s legacy will inspire us forever and always.”

Pele’s funeral will take place in his hometown of Santos. His casket will be carried around the streets of the city, and will pass his 100-year-old mother’s house on the way to the Memorial Necrópole Ecumênica. There, a small private ceremony involving close friends and family will be held.

Also read: “I would’ve had more podium finishes”: Daniel Ricciardo looks back on gamble he took while leaving Red Bull in 2019

 

Post Edited By: Somin Bhattacharjee
Lewis Hamilton Mercedes Pele

About the author

Avatar photo

Somin Bhattacharjee

Basketball Editor Somin Bhattacharjee first discovered the game during the 2014 FIBA World Cup. Not long after, he turned to the NBA and found himself drawn to the Golden State Warriors — right at the start of Stephen Curry’s rise. Over time, the admiration turned into full-blown support for the team, one that continues even as the Curry era approaches its twilight. A true hoophead, Somin also follows EuroLeague basketball closely and enjoys exploring the game beyond the NBA. Though holding a bachelor's degree in marketing, Somin discovered his true calling in writing. Since 2021, he has penned over 3,000 articles for TheSportsRush, covering everything from breaking news to sharp opinion pieces and detailed exclusives. He thrives on writing about in-game moments and the reactions that make basketball a uniquely emotional sport. Beyond basketball, Somin plays different sports including soccer and remains a passionate fan of Spanish football giants Real Madrid

Don’t miss these