shot-button
Subscription Subscription
Home > Sports News > Football News > Article > Tragic Ex Brazilian football star Cesar sold 1970 World Cup gold medal to buy cocaine

Tragic! Ex-Brazilian football star Cesar sold 1970 World Cup gold medal to buy cocaine

Updated on: 19 April,2015 11:42 PM IST  | 
Agencies |

Paulo Cesar, a member of Brazil's famed 1970 football World Cup winning team, has admitted he sold the gold medal to buy cocaine.

Tragic! Ex-Brazilian football star Cesar sold 1970 World Cup gold medal to buy cocaine

Rio de Janeiro, Paulo Cesar, a member of Brazil's famed 1970 football World Cup winning team, has admitted he sold the gold medal to buy cocaine.


"I wasn't in control emotionally. I should never have negotiated and sold such a precious medal," he told Globonews television station.


"It's a huge loss. I've never told anyone but now I'm ready to admit it."


The 65-year-old former midfielder added: "The most important thing for me was cocaine. The medal was less important."

Paulo Cesar made his name at Rio de Janeiro outfit Botafogo in the 1960s before going on to play for other leading Brazilian lights Flamengo, Fluminense, Gremio, Vasco da Gama and Corinthians.

He said he was addicted to drugs and alcohol for 17 years and had lost three appartements in Rio because of it.

His addiction began in France when playing for Marseille in 1974-75. He ended his career at Aix-en-Provence in 1982-83, where a doctor told him he would soon die if he didn't change his ways.

He was an unused substitute in Brazil's 4-1 victory over Italy in the final in Mexico City.

He had started in two of Brazil's three group games and also made two other substitute appearances, although he did not feature in either the semi-final or final.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!


Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK