Giant Pele statue installed outside stadium ahead of 2026 World Cup

Workers used a crane to install a massive bronze statue of Pelé outside Estadio Jalisco in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Aerial and ground images showed crews lifting and positioning the nine-meter-high sculpture beside the stadium as onlookers gathered to watch.

Created by Mexican artist Alejandro Velazco, the monument titled “La Canarinha” depicts Pele celebrating during the 1970 World Cup in Mexico, where Brazil won the tournament.

Estadio Jalisco is one of the venues set to host matches during the 2026 World Cup.