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In anticipation of the FIFA World Cup finals arriving in the tri-state area, two iconic streets in New York City may soon bear the names of legendary soccer figures, albeit temporarily.
City Councilmember Virginia Maloney has put forward a proposal to temporarily rename a Midtown intersection as “Thierry Henry Way,” honoring the retired French soccer star who now resides in the city.
If the legislation is approved, the intersection at West 50th Street and Sixth Avenue will receive its new name immediately, with the designation lasting until November 1.
“Thierry Henry Way will grace the district I represent, right next to Rockefeller Center, an area poised to host free viewing parties for countless fans,” Maloney expressed.
She continued, “This initiative seamlessly links this global event with our local neighborhoods and businesses, making sure New Yorkers are integral to this unique experience, whether they’re inside the stadiums or out on the streets.”
Henry played for London’s Arsenal FC and FC Barcelona and also spent five seasons with the New York Red Bulls, beginning 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 a 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.”