José Manuel Bolieiro pays tribute to Pedro Pauleta with new street name in São Roque - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, presided over the ceremony to change the name of the São Roque bypass in Ponta Delgada, which will now be designated as Rua Pedro Pauleta.

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

The head of the Azorean Government 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 honouring figures who, with talent and character, contribute to the Region's prestige.

"Pedro Pauleta is an illustrious Azorean who greatly honours the parish, its people and the Azores as a whole," said José Manuel Bolieiro.

He stressed: "I am a fan of sportsman and citizen Pedro Pauleta, a person who magnifies the Azores to the world."

The President of the Government highlighted the former footballer's humble and positive attitude and contribution to society.

For José Manuel Bolieiro, honouring Pedro Pauleta reflects the recognition the Azores give him, not only for his footballing 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 also the national team's top scorer for years and is still the second-best ever.

Pedro Pauleta expressed his gratitude for the symbolic honour in the place where he was born.

"I am 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 footballer fondly recalled his childhood in the parish and emphasised that, despite the international profile of his career, the Azores had always been his point of reference.

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

The tribute now paid fulfils the Regional Government's commitment when the bypass was opened in February 2022. It further strengthens Pedro Pauleta's ties 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 for 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, accompanied by family and friends.