Pele, who had a tumour removed from his colon last year, passed away in a Sao Paolo hospital, his agent said.

Brazilian football legend Pele has died following a long battle with cancer, his agent Joe Fraga and his family confirmed on Thursday.

Representatives for Pele announced his death on the sport star’s social media: “Inspiration and love marked the journey of King Pele, who peacefully passed away today.”

The 82-year-old three-time World Cup winner, whose real name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento, was remembered for his wide-ranging accomplishments, both on the football field and off.

The memorial post on Pele’s social media highlighted the star’s international appeal, referencing an incident during the Nigerian Civil War when opposing factions agreed to a ceasefire in order to enjoy a match Pele played in the country.

“On his journey, Edson enchanted the world with his genius in sport, stopped a war, carried out social works all over the world and spread what he most believed to be the cure for all our problems: love. His message today becomes a legacy for future generations,” the message on Pele’s social media read.

Tributes poured in from around the world for the late football legend, including one from his daughter, documentary filmmaker Kely Nascimento. She posted a photograph to her Instagram showing family members holding his hand as he rested in a hospital bed.