As teams and visitors from across the globe come to Seattle for the FIFA World Cup 2026, The Northwest Seaport Alliance is celebrating the international spirit of the tournament with a unique display at Terminal 46.

Throughout the tournament, shipping containers raised on the terminal’s cranes will feature a central message, “Welcome to the Pacific Northwest,” flanked by the flags of the two countries competing in the next match at Seattle Stadium. The flags will be changed following each match, creating an evolving display welcoming visitors and celebrating the nations, cultures and communities coming to Seattle during the World Cup.

The display highlights the important role maritime trade plays in connecting the Pacific Northwest with countries around the world.

“Every day, The Northwest Seaport Alliance connects our region to international markets and trading partners around the world,” said NWSA Co-Chair and Port of Seattle Commission President Ryan Calkins. “As Seattle welcomes teams and fans from across the globe, we’re proud to celebrate those connections and extend a warm Pacific Northwest welcome to everyone visiting our region.”

During the FIFA World Cup matches in Seattle, the terminal’s container display will provide a visible reminder that ports are more than a place where cargo moves, they are also a place where people, cultures and economies connect.

The Northwest Seaport Alliance extends its appreciation to the members of ILWU Local 19, the Pacific Crane Maintenance Company, Ocean Network Express North America, Premier Graphics, Provisioners Warehouse and Transportation Services and the ports of Seattle and Tacoma for their collaboration in bringing this display to life. Their partnership and expertise helped transform a creative vision into a welcoming landmark on Seattle’s working waterfront.

“The NWSA gateway is a pivotal link that connects international markets with the Pacific Northwest and reaches inland destinations throughout the Midwest,” said NWSA Co-Chair and Port of Tacoma Commission President Dick Marzano. “We are thankful to our dedicated partners who contribute to the efficient movement of cargo across our region and those who played a vital role in assembling the welcoming display for the FIFA World Cup.”

The Northwest Seaport Alliance will share images of each flag installation on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn throughout the remainder of the tournament, along with key facts about the trading relationships and global connections linking the Pacific Northwest to countries playing in the matches held in Seattle. New photos of each installation will also be added to this article.

From cargo containers to soccer (or football) fans, the message remains the same: Welcome to the Pacific Northwest!