New York renames streets as “Thierry Henry Way” and “Pele” tributes

As the World Cup countdown tightens, New York City has turned sections of its streets into football tributes, temporarily renaming them after legends Thierry Henry and Pele as part of celebrations leading into the global tournament.

The United States, Canada, and Mexico are set to host the competition starting Thursday, with the final scheduled for next month at MetLife Stadium, which has also been rebranded as the New York New Jersey Stadium and is located just outside the city.

In downtown Manhattan, crowds gathered at West 50th Street and 6th Avenue for the unveiling of “Thierry Henry Way.” The event, captured in social media posts, drew attention as residents and officials marked the moment in honour of the former striker.

Thierry Henry, who played for the France national team and was part of the squad that won the 1998 World Cup, remains one of the most recognised names in modern football. His profile in the United States also grew after spending five seasons with New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer, a spell that ended in 2014.

City officials used the moment to celebrate his contribution to the sport. “Today, New York City honored one of the greatest to ever play the game," New York City Council Member Virginia Maloney wrote on Instagram.

Henry also shared his reaction in a recorded message, saying, "I can't wait to walk around there the next time I go to Rockefeller Center or Radio City Music Hall."

At the same time, another tribute was rolled out in Queens, where the intersection of Shea Road and Meridian Road was renamed in honour of Brazilian football great Pele, according to the New York City Council website.

The temporary street names will remain in place until November 1, adding to the city’s growing football atmosphere as attention shifts to the tournament kickoff.