Neymar junior….Photo /courtesy
By IP Reporter
November 17, 2025
SAO PAULO,BRAZIL
Neymar da Silva Santos Sr., the father of Brazilian star Neymar Jr., has purchased full rights to the Pelé brand in a deal worth about US$18 million, securing control over the late football icon’s name, image and historic archives.
The acquisition was finalized through NR Sports, the family’s sports marketing company, after reaching an agreement with Sport 10, the U.S.-based firm that had previously overseen Pelé’s commercial assets.
The package includes global licensing rights, merchandising permissions and access to Pelé’s extensive historical collection — a trove many analysts say has been commercially dormant since Pelé’s death in 2022.
The timing is symbolic: the formal announcement is scheduled for November 19, marking the anniversary of Pelé’s 1,000th career goal, one of the most celebrated milestones in football history.
NR Sports has recently positioned Neymar as the symbolic heir to Pelé’s greatness.
In new Santos FC promotional materials, Neymar is branded as “the Prince,” a deliberate echo of Pelé’s lifelong title as “the King.”
The company has also renovated Pelé’s former VIP box at Vila Belmiro Stadium, installing new seating, a glass enclosure, upgraded restrooms and modern air conditioning — all funded by NR Sports as part of their effort to preserve and elevate Pelé’s legacy.
Business analysts say the move could trigger a commercial revival for the Pelé name, potentially unlocking new licensing deals, global merchandise lines, documentary projects and digital ventures aimed at reintroducing the football legend to new generations.
With the Neymar family now in full control, the Pelé brand appears poised for a global relaunch — one that blends nostalgia, business and Brazil’s storied football royalty into a new chapter of commercial power.



