FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed on Wednesday that he would not honor Pele after he was attacked for a photo call during the Brazilian legend.
Infantino took a selfie with some of Pele’s old friends next to the three-time World Cup winner’s open casket.
The Swiss said he took the photo because Pele’s teammates seemed unable to operate their cell phones.
“I took the phone of one of them and took a picture of us all for him,” Infantino confirmed.
“If it helps Pele’s friend to make criticism, I am happy to accept it and will continue to help wherever possible for those who have contributed to write the pages of legendary football.
“I respect and honor Pele and for the ceremony yesterday, I will not do anything disrespectful,” Infantino said.
Brazil gave Pele a strong start to the day at the Santos stadium.
Santos said that more than 230,000 people had been awake for 24 hours at the Vila Belmiro stadium.
At the funeral, another sombre tone was set as the weeping widow Pele Marcia Cibele Aoki was embraced by the equally moved newly-sworn in president Lula.
Pele died on Friday at the age of 82 after a battle with cancer.