Brazilian football icon Pele could miss the Russia 2018 World Cup with “lingering” health problems after a recent setback kept him from presenting the Campeonato Carioca trophy on Monday.
The 77-year-old three-time World Cup winner, an ambassador for the annual Rio de Janeiro football championship, was unable to award the trophy to winners Botafogo.
Despite making the journey to Russia in December for the World Cup 2018 Final Draw in Moscow, he could miss the tournament this summer while he recuperates from lingering problems, Goal reports.
After the draw, Pele said he hoped to visit Russia for the 2018 World Cup and support his beloved Brazil provided he remained in good health.
Pele’s health issues date back to 2012, when he underwent surgery to correct the symptoms of osteoarthritis which ended up causing more complications.
In January this year, he was hospitalized in Brazil after collapsing in the early hours due to exhaustion.
He was subsequently forced to cancel an appearance at a Football Writers’ Association Tribute Night in London.
Follow The Eagle Online Channel on WhatsApp
