In anticipation of the FIFA World Cup finals, set to grace the tri-state area, two streets in New York City might soon bear the names of legendary soccer players, albeit temporarily. This homage comes as a nod to the global sporting event, sparking excitement among fans and locals alike.
On Thursday, City Councilmember Virginia Maloney put forth a proposal to temporarily rename an intersection in Midtown Manhattan as “Thierry Henry Way.” This gesture honors the celebrated French soccer icon who has made New York City his home.
If approved, the intersection at West 50th Street and Sixth Avenue will don its new title immediately, with the temporary change remaining in effect until November 1.
“Thierry Henry Way will grace the district I am honored to represent, right beside the bustling Rockefeller Center, a hub where countless fans will converge for complimentary viewing parties,” Maloney remarked.
She further emphasized the significance of this initiative, saying, “This is a unique opportunity to bridge a monumental global event with our local communities and businesses. It ensures New Yorkers can partake in this once-in-a-lifetime experience, whether they find themselves in our stadiums or on our streets.”
Henry, known for his illustrious career with London’s Arsenal FC and FC Barcelona, also left a lasting legacy with the New York Red Bulls, playing five seasons with the team starting in 2010.
Councilmember Shanel Thomas-Henry of Queens also proposed renaming a Queens street “Pelé Way” – after the late Brazilian soccer legend who played three seasons with the New York Cosmos – under the same bill.
The Queens location, positioned at the intersection of Shea Road and Meridian Road, is steps from Flushing Meadows Corona Park and the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center — the latter of which is slated to host a massive World Cup fan event from June 17-28.
“Co-naming this street ‘Pelé Way’ is a tribute not just to Pelé’s extraordinary legacy, but to the unifying power of soccer to bring people together across cultures, languages, and generations,” said Thomas-Henry, who represents Corona.
“In a district as diverse and vibrant as ours, this moment reflects who we are and the stories that shape our communities.”
The proposals were referred to the city’s Parks and Recreation Committee.
This isn’t the first time the city has temporarily honored sports legends.
Last year, during the Knicks’ playoff run, then-Mayor Eric Adams unveiled 15 street signs for the basketball team.
The bill is part of a package introduced Thursday set to generate tourism interest ahead of the World Cup, City Council reps said, including a cultural passport program to “encourage visitation across the city” and a plan to expand public bathroom access, as well as an education program to spread awareness of common tourist scams.
“With the World Cup coming to New York City this summer, we have a unique opportunity to drive economic activity and showcase our city to the world,” Council Speaker Julie Menin said.
“This package ensures that the benefits don’t only stay in a few neighborhoods, but reach small businesses and communities across all five boroughs. By centering equity and accessibility, we can make this a moment that delivers for all New Yorkers.”
