This Thursday, the Cabildo of Tenerife hosted a formal ceremony in the Noble Hall of the insular Palace to bestow the title of Illustrious Sons of Tenerife upon footballers Ayoze Pérez and Pedro González, known as Pedri. This honour recognises their roles as ambassadors of the island after being crowned European champions with the Spanish National Team in 2024. Chaired by Rosa Dávila and Lope Afonso, the event celebrated the talent and values that both athletes embody for the youth and the entire Canary Islands.
A title that enhances the connection with the Island
Being named Illustrious Son of Tenerife not only acknowledges personal achievements, but also affirms a profound relationship with the Island. This accolade, one of the highest recognitions that the Cabildo can confer, represents the gratitude of Tenerife’s society towards individuals who, with dedication, talent, and humility, promote the name of Tenerife beyond its borders.
The president of the Cabildo, Rosa Dávila, remarked that this recognition goes beyond the realm of sport: “Today we celebrate not just talent, but also values. Pedri and Ayoze epitomise the very best of our youth: diligence, humility, and commitment. From Tegueste and Santa Cruz, they have showcased the name of Tenerife in esteemed corners of the international arena. With this homage, we honour those who inspire new generations.”
Ayoze Pérez: from María Jiménez neighbourhood to football stardom
Ayoze Pérez, the forward for Villarreal, reflected on his modest beginnings playing football in the streets of Santa Cruz. Clearly moved, he stated: “Receiving this title fills me with pride and is a significant responsibility. It represents my island, Tenerife, my birthplace, where I grew up and where I shall always return.” The player, who initiated his career in the CD Tenerife youth academy, expressed gratitude towards his family for their sacrifices and highlighted that Tenerife remains close to his heart: “I consider myself fortunate to have been born in this paradise.”
Pedri: the Tenerife talent on the global football stage
At just 22 years old, Pedri, a midfielder for FC Barcelona, has become one of the youngest Illustrious Sons in the island’s history. “I never anticipated receiving such an esteemed award at this age. It is both an honour and a substantial responsibility,” he remarked. Hailing from Tegueste, the footballer emphasised that every title won with Barcelona or Spain resonates with the pride of belonging to the Canary Islands and Tenerife: “Whenever I reflect on my successes, I always think of my people and my homeland.”
Values that inspire Tenerife and beyond
The vice president of the Cabildo, Lope Afonso, underscored that both athletes exemplify values such as sacrifice, generosity, and teamwork: “These traits were evident in the unexpected triumph of the Spanish National Team in the Euro Cup and they serve as role models for our youth.”
The recognition granted as Illustrious Sons reinforces Ayoze and Pedri’s bond with Tenerife and highlights how sport can transcend boundaries to become a wellspring of inspiration. This honour not only celebrates their remarkable careers but also positions them as symbols of dedication and pride for the island, elevating the name of Tenerife on the international stage.
What does it mean to be an Illustrious Son of Tenerife?
A pinnacle of honorary recognition: This is one of the most significant distinctions awarded by the Cabildo of Tenerife. It honours individuals who have excelled extraordinarily in their fields, projecting the name of the island within both national and international arenas.
Representing the island as an ambassador: The Illustrious Sons become emblems of the virtues and spirit of Tenerife. Their influence, careers or societal impact strengthen Tenerife’s identity, emphasising values such as dedication, commitment, and excellence.
A legacy for future generations: Being an Illustrious Son not only acknowledges individual accomplishments but also positions the honoured youth as a role model for the community, particularly for their peers. Their example serves as a source of inspiration and motivation to realise ambitions with passion and dedication.
A symbolic connection with Tenerife: This honour highlights the inseparable bond between the recipient and the island. It underlines that, regardless of where they achieve success, they carry Tenerife in their hearts, becoming a cultural, historical, or sporting extension of their homeland.
An act of collective appreciation: Through this title, the community of Tenerife and its institutions express gratitude to the recipients for enhancing the prestige of Tenerife and their positive influence on the island and its inhabitants.
