In pictures: Learn about the list of athletes decorated by Queen Elizabeth

During the seven-decade reign of Queen Elizabeth II, who died early Thursday afternoon (9), she had a strong relationship with sport. For example, many sports celebrities have received the honors of the Crown of the United Kingdom.

This was the case for Pele, who was awarded a Knight of the Order of the British Empire in London in 1997. The event was held at Chelsea's headquarters. The king of football at that time was Minister of Sports.

The two had already met at the Maracanã in 1968, when the queen watched a match between Rio and Sao Paulo. After the match, the championship cup was handed over to King Pele.

Remember the athletes decorated by Queen Elizabeth:

Pele was knighted in 1997 – Photo: POOL/AFP/ND

Driver Lewis Hamilton receives the title of Knight of the British Crown due to his achievements in Formula 1 – Photo: Twitter / @TheRoyalFamily

Former player David Beckham has once again been honored by Queen Elizabeth – Photograph: John Stillwell / POOL / AFP / ND

The Queen's Medal was also awarded to legendary Manchester United coach Alex Ferguson – Photograph: AFP/Tim Hales

Olympic athletics champion Mo Farah also received honor from the Queen – Photo: AFP

England national team player Harry Kane also received honors from the Queen – Photo: AFP/Getty Images/ND