World Cup fever hits New York as streets renamed after Henry, Pele

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to kick off across North America, New York City has rolled out a special tribute to two of football’s most iconic figures, Thierry Henry and Pele, temporarily renaming streets in their honour.

The move forms part of activities leading up to the global tournament, which begins on Thursday and will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. The World Cup final is scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, rebranded for the tournament as the New York New Jersey Stadium.

In Manhattan, city officials unveiled “Thierry Henry Way” at the intersection of West 50th Street and Sixth Avenue, celebrating the French legend’s contribution to football and his enduring connection to New York.

Henry, who helped France win the 1998 FIFA World Cup and enjoyed trophy-laden spells with Arsenal and Barcelona, joined the ceremony through a video link. The former striker remains a beloved figure in the city after spending five seasons with Major League Soccer side New York Red Bulls.

New York also honoured Brazilian football icon Pele by renaming the intersection of Shea Road and Meridian Road in Queens. Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Pele’s legacy continues to resonate decades after leading Brazil to three World Cup titles.

City authorities said the commemorative street names will remain in place until November 1, allowing residents and visiting football fans to celebrate two players whose careers helped shape the global appeal of the sport.

The tributes highlight New York’s growing role in football’s biggest spectacle and reflect the city’s efforts to embrace the excitement surrounding the World Cup. With millions of fans expected to follow the tournament, officials believe honouring Henry and Pele is a fitting way to celebrate the game’s rich history while welcoming a new generation of supporters.

As the countdown to kickoff enters its final hours, the renamed streets serve as a reminder of the legends whose achievements transformed football into the global phenomenon it is today.