Brazil says final farewell to 'King' Pele

Brazil says a final farewell to football legend Pele, widely regarded as the greatest player of all time.

After holding three days of national mourning, Brazil has been paying its last respects to the player known as "The King," who died at age 82 after a battle with cancer.

Thousands of fans and football dignitaries, including FIFA president Gianni Infantino, have already filed past Pele's black coffin at the stadium where he first dazzled the world, the Vila Belmiro, home to his longtime club, Santos FC.

Born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, Pele exploded onto the scene at age 15, when he made his professional debut with Santos.

He went on to win the World Cup three times with Brazil, in 1958, 1962 and 1970 -- the only player in history to achieve the feat.

Tributes have poured in from around the world since his death, with a Who's Who of current and former football greats hailing his genius for the "beautiful game."

Pele's coffin was carried into the stadium  by pallbearers dressed in black, led by his son Edinho.

The casket was draped in the flags of Santos and Brazil and was surrounded by white flowers, including bouquets from the likes of Real Madrid or current Brazil star Neymar, whose father was in attendance.

A stream of athletes, politicians, dignitaries and fans have travelled to Santos for the ceremony, though turnout may be dented somewhat by the New Year's holiday weekend.