Bad Bunny Pays Homage to Pelé with Iconic Jacket During São Paulo Concerts
Bad Bunny’s recent concerts at Allianz Parque in São Paulo, Brazil, weren’t just a musical spectacle; they were a cultural moment that blended music, fashion, and a heartfelt tribute to football legend Pelé. The Puerto Rican superstar donned iconic pieces of Brazilian football history, captivating fans and earning praise from Pelé’s account.
A Tribute in Threads: The 1966 World Cup Jacket
During his Saturday night performance, Bad Bunny took the stage wearing the original jacket worn by Pelé during the 1966 World Cup in England. The green jacket, featuring yellow details and a canelated collar with a zipper, is part of the collection of Cássio Brandão, who owns over 6,000 football shirts and runs the Alambrado project. UOL Esporte reported the jacket was loaned to the artist for the show.
Earlier Homage: The 1962 Brazil Shirt
This wasn’t Bad Bunny’s first nod to Brazilian football during his São Paulo shows. On Friday, February 20th, he sported a retro polo shirt from the 1962 World Cup, when Brazil won its second World Cup title. The shirt was a reproduction created by Retrô Gol in partnership with Athleta. Metrópoles detailed the outfit choice.
Pelé’s Account Responds
The gesture didn’t go unnoticed. Pelé’s official account expressed appreciation for the tribute, stating, “Bad Bunny showed that football has everything to do with music and joy.” The account further emphasized the respect, legacy, and global reach of football, noting that Bad Bunny’s homage on Brazilian soil highlighted the enduring shine of Pelé’s crown. UOL Esporte shared the message from the account.
Bad Bunny’s Broader Sporting References
Bad Bunny’s affinity for sports extends beyond football. He has referenced Lionel Messi and Argentina, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Gerard Piqué in his lyrics. He’s similarly been seen at NBA and MLB games, supporting the New York Knicks and New York Yankees, respectively. References to Ayrton Senna and appearances at the Super Bowl demonstrate his appreciation for motorsports and American football. Notably, he has actively participated in professional wrestling events like WrestleMania, Royal Rumble, and Backlash, and frequently references wrestlers in his work. UOL Esporte highlighted these connections.
Breaking Through in Brazil
Bad Bunny’s success in Brazil marks a significant moment for the global superstar, who has previously faced challenges gaining traction in a market that strongly favors national artists. AP News reported on his growing popularity in the country, with his concerts at Allianz Parque selling out.