Mario Zagallo, the only man to receive four FIFA World Cup™ winner’s medals, has passed away aged 92. He was admitted into hospital in Rio de Janeiro at the end of December.

Zagallo hadn’t kicked a ball for Brazil one month before Sweden 1958 began, but went on to start every game as they conquered the sport for the first time. The industrious winger then played a key role in them retaining the crown four years later in Chile.

Brazil were in crisis in the lead-up to Mexico 1970. Seventy-five days before it began, they hurriedly appointed Zagallo as coach on the behest of Pele.

The Alagoano courageously elected to field five No10s – Gerson, Jairzinho, Rivellino, Pele and Tostao – in the same side, operating most of them in unfamiliar functions. It paid dividends as ‘The Beautiful Team’ exhilarated en route to glory.

Zagallo was then Carlos Alberto Parreira’s assistant as the Seleção won USA 1994, before re-entering the hot-seat and leading them to a runners-up finish at France 1998.

“It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of one of the true greats, a man whose impact on the FIFA World Cup is unparalleled,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
“In times of need, Brazil has looked to ‘The Professor’ as a calming presence, a steering hand and as a tactical genius. He will be remembered as the Godfather of Brazilian football and his presence will be sorely missed by everyone in the game but especially here at FIFA.

“The story of the FIFA World Cup cannot be told without Mário Zagallo. I wish to send my heartfelt condolences to the country of Brazil, the Brazilian Football Association and to his family and friends.”