The Seattle World Cup Hosting Committee ( Seattle FW26) and the Puyallup Tribe of Indians reached a landmark agreement that will recognize the Puyallup Tribe of Indians as the Official Legacy Supporter for all Seattle 26 activities and activations.
In the backdrop of the historic agreement was a mural depicting one of the oldest forms of competition in North America ,slehal. The renowned sləhal mural depicted the traditional bone games that have been part of the Puyallup Tribe’s rich culture since time immemorial. The game would be played for fun, used for ceremonial purposes and to settle arguments.
Seattle FWC26 CEO Peter spoke of the opportunity the World Cup will bring for the Puyallup Tribes to share their culture and love for humanity.
“Today we make history, and we could not be more pleased or honoured to have the Puyallup Tribe of Indians as the Seattle 26 Official Legacy Supporter during the next men’s World Cup. This is a first-of-its kind cultural partnership whereby the Puyallup Tribe will tell their story, in their own voice, in the spirit of fostering a better understanding of people. It is the first time in history that an indigenous people will become a supporter of a World Cup host city. This will not only put them on the global map, it will further reinforce their ambition to share their culture and celebrate humanity”
TRIBAL REPRESENTATION
Puyallup Tribal Council Chairman Bill Sterud was present with other elected members of the Tribe’s governing body: Vice Chairwoman Sylvia Miller and Council Members Annette Bryan, James Rideout, Anna Bean, Monica Miller and Fred Dillon. Heritage staff and students from Chief Leschi Schools performed ceremonial song and dance to commemorate the occasion, while 16-year-old Cecilia Dillon preceded the announcement with a prayer in the Puyallup Tribe’s Lushootseed language. Chief Leschi Schools language teacher David Sway-la Duenas provided a translation of the prayer.
“The Puyallup Tribe of Indians thinks globally, and there is no bigger international stage than the World Cup. It is important for us to share our values, traditions and culture, and we will do that by supporting the FIFA World Cup 26 Local Organizing Committee. This isn’t just about the Puyallup Tribe, or the Tribes across the state of Washington said Sterud.
It is about all people. We are known for being generous and welcoming to all who enter our lands, and this cultural partnership will help us extend that spirit to the beautiful game and the world. Since time immemorial, the Puyallup Tribe has competed with canoe racing and the traditional bone games. There is no better opportunity to share our culture, our traditions, our businesses, and our past, present and future than the largest single sporting event on the planet.”
About the Puyallup Tribe of Indians
The Puyallup People have lived along the shores of what is now called Puget Sound since time immemorial. The Puyallup Tribe of Indians is a sovereign nation of more than 5,000 members and one of the largest employers in Pierce County. It serves its members and community with generosity and is committed to building a sustainable way of life for future generations. Learn more about the Puyallup Tribe.
About the SeattleFWC26
SeattleFWC26 is the local organizing committee for Seattle’s participation as one of the 16 host cities selected for the FIFA World Cup 26™. As a not-for-profit organization, SeattleFWC26’s vision is to foster a lasting legacy for our region, guided by the spirit or soccer, innovation and inclusion. To keep up to date on the latest news and involvement opportunities with SeattleFWC26 please register at seattlefwc26.org/get-involved.
About FIFA World Cup 26™
The FIFA World Cup 26™ will be the biggest sporting event ever – three Host Countries, 16 Host Cities, 48 teams, 104 matches uniting an entire continent to showcase a momentous new tournament format while keeping the exciting 4-team groups to ensure the ultimate football spectacle. With more countries, cities, teams and games, FIFA World Cup 26™ will unite the entire world on the biggest stage ever and will engage millions of fans across 16 stadiums and billions worldwide. The tournament will take place in June and July 2026. For the latest FIFA World Cup 26™ information please register via the FIFA Media Hub and visit the FIFA World Cup 26™ website.
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