Fifa present as Kigali stadium renamed after football legend Pele

Paul Kagame (L) and Gianni Infantino (R) say they want to keep Pele’s memory alive

Fifa boss Gianni Infantino has attended the inauguration of an upgraded stadium in Rwanda’s capital, renamed in honour of the Brazilian football legend Pele who died in December last year.

The multi-sports 22,000-seater ground, initially known as Kigali Regional Stadium, is now called the Kigali Pele Stadium.

The ceremony, which happened on the side-lines of the 73rd Fifa Congress in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, on Wednesday, was presided over by President Paul Kagame.

The 67-year-old leader – a fervent supporter of English Premier League side Arsenal – thanked Mr Infantino for giving the country an opportunity to honour Pele, according to The News Times.

He is quoted as saying the footballer, who is arguably the greatest player ever, “brought the world together through sports” and served as an inspiration for many.

Mr Infantino said the renaming of the stadium was the best way to keep Pele’s football memories alive.

“Pele left us but he is always with us,” Mr Infantino said.