What team did Pelé retire from?
Pelé officially retired from the New York Cosmos.
Pelé's Final Chapter: Retiring with the Cosmos
The legendary Brazilian footballer, Pelé, concluded his illustrious professional career with the New York Cosmos of the North American Soccer League (NASL). His final retirement from the game came in 1977, following a significant period where he helped elevate the sport's profile in the United States.
A Brief Timeline of Pelé's Retirement Journey
Pelé's retirement was a phased process that saw him return to the pitch after an initial announcement:
- 1974: Pelé initially announced his retirement from professional football, signifying a potential end to his groundbreaking career.
- 1975: In a surprising move that captivated the sports world, Pelé agreed to a three-year, $7 million contract with the New York Cosmos. This strategic decision was not solely for playing, but also to promote and popularize soccer in the United States.
- 1977: Pelé played his last professional game, officially retiring after leading the New York Cosmos to the NASL league championship, a fitting end to his remarkable career.
Key Aspects of Pelé's Cosmos Tenure and Retirement
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Team of Retirement | New York Cosmos |
| League Played In | North American Soccer League (NASL) |
| Year of Final Retirement | 1977 |
| Significant Achievement | Led the Cosmos to the NASL league championship in his final season. |
| Contract Value | $7 million over three years, highlighting his immense value and the league's ambition. |
| Purpose of Move | Beyond playing, a key objective was to promote and grow the game of soccer in the United States. |
Pelé's tenure with the New York Cosmos was instrumental in bringing soccer into the mainstream in North America and underscored his enduring legacy as a global ambassador for the sport. For more comprehensive details on his life and career, you can explore his biography on Britannica.
