The United States Postal Service will honor the life and legacy of Muhammad Ali, widely known as “The Greatest,” with the release of two new Forever stamps celebrating the legendary boxer’s contributions both inside and outside the ring. The stamps will be issued during a first-day-of-issue event on January 15, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky, Ali’s hometown. The ceremony is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to register in advance at: usps.com/muhammadalistamps.
Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps, by calling 844-737-7826, by mail through USA Philatelic or at Post Office locations nationwide. For officially licensed stamp products, shop the USPS Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon. Additional information on stamps, First Day of Issue Ceremonies and stamp inspired products can be found at StampsForever.com.
Ali was born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. in Louisville and became one of the most recognizable athletes in history as a three-time heavyweight boxing champion. He was also a passionate advocate for social justice, civil rights, and humanitarian causes. His wit, courage, and willingness to speak out on issues of inequality made him a global icon whose impact transcended sports. The stamps will reflect this broad legacy, and news of their release is being shared with the hashtag #MuhammadAliStamps.
The Muhammad Ali Forever stamps feature a black-and-white photograph from 1974 that captures Ali in a classic boxing stance. The design incorporates alternating top-to-bottom lettering of Ali’s last name, a stylistic choice intended to evoke promotional posters and the dynamic energy associated with his career. The checkerboard configuration of the stamps underscores both artistic detail and visual movement, hallmarks of Ali’s persona and athletic prowess.
The first-day-of-issue event, scheduled for noon EST at the University of Louisville’s L & N Federal Credit Union Stadium and Angel’s Envy Bourbon Club, will feature remarks from the Honorable Ronald A. Stroman, a member of the USPS Board of Governors. The program will also include participation by Lonnie Ali, Muhammad’s wife and co-founder of the Muhammad Ali Center, and acclaimed broadcaster and author Bob Costas.
Throughout his life, Ali challenged not only opponents in the ring but also societal norms. At a time when African Americans fought for greater equality and recognition, he used his platform to speak out for peace, faith, and justice, inspiring people around the world. His accomplishments extended far beyond boxing; in 1998 he was named a United Nations Messenger of Peace, and in 2005 he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian award. That same year, he and Lonnie Ali established the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville to promote his values of respect, empowerment, and service.
The new stamps are part of a broader slate of 2026 USPS releases that includes tributes to other influential figures and themes, but the Ali stamps stand out for their celebration of both athletic excellence and humanitarian leadership. Sheets of 20 stamps are available for preorder on the Postal Store, and customers may also purchase related philatelic products, such as collectible portfolios and special cancellation cards. Forever stamps remain valid for first-class postage regardless of future rate changes, making them both functional and meaningful keepsakes.
The legacy of Muhammad Ali—as a champion in the ring and a voice for humanity—continues to resonate widely. With the release of these stamps, the Postal Service honors a figure whose life exemplified courage, conviction, and compassion, reminding collectors and admirers alike of the enduring power of his story.
