To honor Juneteenth, the newest federal holiday in the United States, FIFA unveiled a special video in Seattle before the U.S. team’s crucial match against Australia.
The video, featuring renowned Seattle Supersonics player and NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton, showcases notable Seattle landmarks.
“Some remember, some reflect, while many others celebrate,” Payton states in the video, which highlights the Northwest African American Museum and Pike Place Market. “This day means freedom, black liberation, joy, jubilation and celebration. And today, we are definitely celebrating.”
Leonardo Santiago, head of media relations for FIFA26 Inc., mentioned that the organization aims to honor the holiday, which marks the end of slavery, at each World Cup match scheduled for Friday. Customized videos for Foxborough, Massachusetts, where Scotland and Morocco will compete, Philadelphia, where Brazil and Haiti will meet, and Santa Clara, California, will also be released to commemorate the day.
“FIFA collaborated with each Host City to ensure the video is tailored for each stadium, incorporating city-specific imagery while acknowledging the national holiday and its significance,” Santiago explained. “As the video plays, the stadium will also display complementary graphics on the ribbon boards.”
