YEREVAN, March 12. /Novosti-Armenia/. The Yerevan City Council has decided to rename Hrazdan Gorge Street, located in the Kentron administrative district, after the legendary Soviet footballer and coach, Olympic champion, and head coach of ‘Ararat-73’, Nikita Simonyan.
A Tribute to a Football Icon
Nikita Simonyan, a legendary figure in football, passed away on November 23, 2025, at the age of 99. His remarkable career included leading ‘Ararat’ to victory in the USSR Championship and the USSR Cup in 1973. Simonyan was a four-time USSR champion and two-time USSR Cup winner with ‘Spartak’, where he remains the club’s top scorer with 160 goals. As a coach, he secured three USSR championships and four cups. Since 1992, he has served as the first vice-president of the Russian Football Union.
Simonyan’s Achievements and Legacy
For his outstanding contributions to football, Simonyan was awarded medals by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and FIFA, the ‘Order for Services to the Fatherland’ of the 3rd and 4th degrees, and the honorary title of ‘Honored Worker of Physical Culture of the Russian Federation’. In October, Simonyan was awarded the title of ‘Hero of Labor of Russia’ for his exceptional services to the state and significant contribution to the development and popularization of Russian football.
Impact on Armenian Football
Simonyan’s connection to Armenian football, particularly through his coaching tenure with ‘Ararat-73’, holds a special place in the nation’s sporting history. The renaming of a street in Yerevan serves as a lasting tribute to his influence and legacy within the sport, not only in Armenia but across the former Soviet Union.
This decision by the Yerevan City Council reflects the deep respect and admiration for Simonyan’s achievements and his enduring impact on generations of football players and fans.
The renaming ceremony details are expected to be announced at a later date.
Source: https://newsarmenia.am/am/news/armenia/erevanum-nikita-simonyani-anvamb-poghots-kanvanakochvi/
