Source: Politics<\/p>\n
FIFA rang in Juneteenth, the country\u2019s newest federal holiday, with a video that played in Seattle ahead of the U.S. team\u2019s pivotal showdown with Australia.<\/p>\n
It stars Seattle Supersonics legend and NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton and features iconic Seattle locations.<\/p>\n
\u201cSome remember, some reflect, while many others celebrate,\u201d Payton says in the video, which highlights landmarks including the Northwest African American Museum and Pike Place Market. \u201cThis day means freedom, black liberation, joy, jubilation and celebration. And today, we are definitely celebrating.\u201d<\/p>\n
Leonardo Santiago, head of media relations for FIFA26 Inc., said the organization plans to commemorate the holiday marking the end of slavery at each World Cup match taking place on Friday. Separate videos personalized to Foxborough, Massachusetts, which hosts Scotland and Morocco, and Philadelphia, where Brazil and Haiti will face off, and Santa Clara, California, are also dropping to mark the holiday.<\/p>\n
\u201cFIFA worked with each Host City to ensure the video is personalized for each stadium, featuring imagery specific to that city while recognizing the nationwide holiday and its importance,\u201d Santiago said. \u201cAs the video plays, the stadium will also have complementary graphics on the ribbon boards as well.\u201d<\/p>\n