The Brazilian, who has passed away at the age of 100, was a divisive figure within the world of sport, but there is no denying that he deserves credit for globalizing the game.
In TS Eliot's 'Murder in the Cathedral', the character of Thomas Becket warns himself against committing "the greatest treason: To do the right deed for the wrong reason." The notion of doing something good but solely for personal glory or gain immediately came to mind with the news of the death of Joao Havelange on Tuesday.
There will be mixed reactions to his passing within the footballing world.