Brazil 2014: "People should have demonstrated when Brazil was chosen, but not now" (Pelé)

"We have nothing to do with corrupt politicians and thieves. It is not our fault. People should have demonstrated when Brazil was chosen to organise the World Cup, and not now that the tournament is very soon," said Pelé in Mexico City on 20/05/2014, concerning the protests against the costs of the World Cup (Brazil, 12/06 to 07/13/2014). Clashes took place in Belem, northern Brazil, on 20/05/2014, when the trophy for the World Cup was presented in its tour across the country, which began 22/04/2014.

The former Brazilian footballer understood the demands of protesters who believe that the money spent could have been used in part for schools and hospitals, but adds that social unrest has already pushed 25% of foreign tourists to cancel their trips.

"Obviously Brazil has some social issues. Those issues are being protested. People are using football as a power, as a tool to bring effective change. They want more investment in education and hospitals. I would like them not to use the World Cup as a soapbox to do that," said Jeffrey Webb (Cayman Islands), vice-president of FIFA…