Louisville, January 14, 2026
The United States Postal Service will release two Forever stamps to honor Muhammad Ali on January 15, 2026. Featuring a striking 1974 photograph of Ali in his boxing stance, the stamps celebrate his legacy both in sports and social activism. A public ceremony will take place at the University of Louisville, welcoming all to commemorate the life and influence of this cultural icon, whose message of resilience continues to inspire.
Louisville, Kentucky
USPS to Release Muhammad Ali Commemorative Stamps
On January 15, 2026, the United States Postal Service (USPS) will spotlight the legendary boxing champion Muhammad Ali with the release of two commemorative Forever stamps in his honor. These stamps will feature a striking photograph of Ali in his iconic boxing stance from 1974, complemented by his name “ALI” in bold lettering. The design, created by USPS art director Antonio Alcalá, aims to honor not only Ali’s prowess as a boxer but also his profound social impact, reinforcing the values of determination and resilience that continue to inspire Louisvillians today.
This upcoming stamp release is a testament to Ali’s remarkable legacy, reminding us of how local entrepreneurs and influencers can achieve greatness through hard work and perseverance. Just as small businesses across Louisville are pushing boundaries and creating opportunities, USPS’s tribute serves as an encouraging reflection of what it means to pursue one’s passion against all odds.
First-Day-of-Issue Ceremony Details
The launch will be celebrated with a public first-day-of-issue ceremony at noon Eastern Time on January 15, 2026. The event will take place at the L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium at the University of Louisville, located at 2550 S Floyd St., Louisville, KY 40208. Open to all and free of charge, attendees are invited to register in advance online. The ceremony is expected to attract community members, stamp enthusiasts, and supporters of Ali’s enduring legacy.
Background on Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. in Louisville, was a three-time world heavyweight boxing champion. Known for his exceptional athletic ability, he also made significant contributions to civil rights and humanitarian efforts. His role as an advocate for peace and equality earned him international respect; he was appointed a United Nations Messenger of Peace in 1998 and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005. In the same year, Ali and his wife, Lonnie, established the Muhammad Ali Center in their hometown, a cultural-educational hub dedicated to promoting respect, inspiring change, and advancing social justice.
Availability of the Stamps
Collecting enthusiasts and fans can preorder the Muhammad Ali Forever stamps through the USPS Postal Store starting January 15, 2026. They will also be accessible via phone orders, mail order, and at USPS locations across the nation. The stamps serve not just as collectibles but as reminders of the values that Ali championed: resilience, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence.
Additional Information
The Muhammad Ali stamps are part of the USPS’s broader 2026 stamp program, which will also honor other American icons such as Phillis Wheatley and Bruce Lee. With the diverse themes featured in its releases, USPS continues to celebrate the rich history and culture of the United States, showcasing how individual achievements contribute to the nation’s narrative.
Key Features of the Muhammad Ali Commemorative Stamps
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Design | A 1974 Associated Press photograph of Ali in boxing stance with “ALI” in bold lettering, created by USPS art director Antonio Alcalá. |
| Release Date | January 15, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky. |
| Availability | Preorders available through USPS Postal Store; also available by phone, mail order, and at Post Office locations nationwide. |
| First-Day-of-Issue Ceremony | Public event at noon Eastern Time on January 15, 2026, at the University of Louisville’s L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium in Louisville, Kentucky. Free and open to the public; registration encouraged at usps.com/muhammadalistamps. |
| Background | Ali was a three-time world heavyweight boxing champion and activist known for his advocacy for civil rights, peace, and humanitarian causes. He was named a United Nations Messenger of Peace in 1998 and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005. He and his wife, Lonnie, founded the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville to promote respect and inspire change. |
FAQ
When will the Muhammad Ali commemorative stamps be released?
The stamps are scheduled for release on January 15, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky.
Where can I purchase the Muhammad Ali Forever stamps?
The stamps can be purchased through the USPS Postal Store, by phone, through mail order, and at Post Office locations nationwide.
What is the design of the Muhammad Ali stamps?
The stamps feature a 1974 Associated Press photograph of Ali in his boxing stance, with the name “ALI” in bold lettering. The design was created by USPS art director Antonio Alcalá.
Is there a ceremony for the stamp release?
Yes, a public first-day-of-issue ceremony will be held at noon Eastern Time on January 15, 2026, at the University of Louisville’s L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium in Louisville, Kentucky. The event is free and open to the public, with attendees encouraged to register in advance at usps.com/muhammadalistamps.
Who is Muhammad Ali?
Muhammad Ali was a three-time world heavyweight boxing champion known for his athletic prowess and activism. Born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. in Louisville, Kentucky, he was a vocal advocate for civil rights, peace, and humanitarian causes. He was named a United Nations Messenger of Peace in 1998 and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005. That same year, he and his wife, Lonnie, founded the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, a cultural-educational institution dedicated to promoting respect, inspiring change, and advancing social justice.
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