The three-time World Cup winner, considered by many as the world's best-ever player, had gold jewellery, a mobile phone and an expensive wrist watch stolen when his chauffeur-driven car was besieged in a traffic jam in Guaruja.

The incident, which also saw other drivers and passengers robbed, happened near a tunnel which connects the Conego Domenico Rangoni road with A Ensenada Beach, close to Pernambuco Beach where Pele has a holiday house. The 67-year-old was unhurt.

Reports suggest the the thieves recognised that their victim was Pele before running away to a shantytown.

Police informed that they have not received an official report.