The 75-year-old was due to light the Olympic cauldron at the Maracana Stadium, with the Games kicking off tomorrow.
But Pele, who has recently undergone hip surgery, needs a walking stick to cope with extreme muscle pains.
And the three-time World Cup winner has decided he’s not in good-enough shape to carry out the honour in front of a global audience.
Pele said: “I’m not physically able to attend the opening of the Olympics at the famous Maracana Stadium.
“Only God is more important than my health.
“In my life, I’ve had fractures, surgeries, pain, hospital stays, victories and defeats. And I’ve always respected those who admire me.
“As a Brazilian, I ask God to bless all those who participate in this event.”
It’s now unclear as to who will light the cauldron at the grand ceremony, with the duty normally handed to one of the host country’s biggest sporting names.
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