Which organization elected Pelé Athlete of the Century in 1999?

The International Olympic Committee elected Pelé Athlete of the Century in 1999.

The honor recognized Pelé’s extraordinary influence across sport, especially his three FIFA World Cup victories with Brazil in 1958, 1962, and 1970. His global fame extended well beyond football, making him one of the most recognizable athletes of the 20th century.

The award is notable because Pelé never competed at the Olympic Games. Professional footballers were generally excluded from the men’s Olympic competition during his playing era, so his Olympic connection came through recognition rather than participation.

Several century awards are easy to confuse. The IFFHS named him World Player of the Century in 2000, while FIFA’s Player of the Century honor was shared by Pelé and Diego Maradona. UEFA and CONMEBOL did not make the 1999 selection in this question.