The President of the Government of the Azores, José Manuel Bolieiro, today presided over the ceremony to change the name of the São Roque bypass in Ponta Delgada to Rua Pedro Pauleta.

He was accompanied by the Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructure, Berta Cabral.

The leader of the Azorean executive highlighted this gesture as “fair recognition” of the merit of the former Azorean footballer, whose career took the name of the Azores far and wide.

José Manuel Bolieiro stressed the importance of honoring figures whose talent and character contribute to the region’s prestige.

“Pedro Pauleta is an illustrious Azorean who greatly honors the parish, its people and the entire Azores,” said José Manuel Bolieiro.

He added: “I’m a fan of the sportsman and citizen Pedro Pauleta, who makes the Azores great in the world.”

He highlighted the former player’s humility, positive attitude, and contribution to society.

For José Manuel Bolieiro, the tribute to Pedro Pauleta reflects the recognition that the Azores give him, not only for his soccer career but also for his example of perseverance, professionalism, and dedication.

Throughout his career, Pauleta stood out at clubs such as Bordeaux and Paris Saint-Germain, where he became an icon. He was for years the National Team’s top scorer and is still the second best ever.

Pedro Pauleta was grateful for the award, expressing his gratitude for the symbolic tribute in the land that saw him born.

“I’m very proud to see my name on this street, here in São Roque, where I grew up and where I have my roots,” he said.

The former player fondly recalled his childhood in the parish and stressed that, despite his career’s international projection, the Azores were always his point of reference.

“The Azores are part of me and will always be in my heart,” he said, moved.

The tribute now paid fulfills the commitment made by the Regional Government when the bypass was inaugurated in February 2022. It also strengthens Pedro Pauleta’s connection to his homeland by perpetuating his name in a public space in the parish.

The ceremony was also attended by the Deputy Mayor of Ponta Delgada, Pedro Furtado; the Regional Director of Public Works, Pedro Azevedo; the President of the São Roque Parish Council, Lúcia Rego; the former President of the São Roque Parish Council, Pedro Moura; and Pedro Pauleta himself, accompanied by family and friends.

Translated to English as a community outreach program from the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL) as part of Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno, PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.