New York honors Thierry Henry, Pelé with street names ahead of 2026 World Cup

New York City has honored football icons Thierry Henry and Pelé by temporarily renaming two streets after the legendary players as excitement builds ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The initiative is part of a broader effort by city officials to celebrate the world’s biggest football tournament, which is being hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. New York and neighboring New Jersey are set to play a central role in the competition, including hosting the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium.

Under legislation approved by the New York City Council, a section of West 50th Street near Rockefeller Center in Manhattan has been co-named “Thierry Henry Way,” while a street near Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens has been designated “Pelé Way.” The honorary street names are expected to remain in place until November 2026.

City officials said the tributes recognize the lasting impact both players have had on football and their connections to New York. Henry, the former France international and Arsenal star, played for the New York Red Bulls from 2010 to 2014, helping raise the profile of Major League Soccer in the United States. Pelé, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, spent the final years of his playing career with the New York Cosmos during the 1970s, helping popularize the sport in North America.

The unveiling of “Thierry Henry Way” took place in Manhattan this week, with local officials, football supporters, and members of the sporting community attending the ceremony. Although Henry was unable to attend in person due to his broadcasting commitments during the World Cup, he participated virtually and expressed gratitude for the recognition.

Supporters say the street co-namings reflect New York City’s rich football history and its growing role as a global soccer destination. Officials also view the initiative as a way to connect local communities to the World Cup festivities, which are expected to attract millions of visitors and generate significant economic activity for the region.

The street tributes form part of a wider package of World Cup-related initiatives aimed at promoting tourism, supporting small businesses, and celebrating the cultural impact of the tournament across New York City’s five boroughs.

As the countdown to the World Cup continues, city leaders hope the honors will serve as a lasting reminder of the contributions made by two of football’s most influential figures and the sport’s enduring connection to New York.