Atlanta has unveiled a sculpture of former South African President Nelson Mandela at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport as part of preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The three-faced sculpture was officially unveiled at the Maynard H. Jackson International Terminal during a ceremony attended by city leaders, cultural representatives and guests from South Africa.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said the artwork symbolises the enduring cultural and historical ties between Atlanta and South Africa.
“Across all of the South African cities, we were struck by the beauty, diversity and resilience of hope that people also see when they visit Atlanta,” said Dickens. “This sculpture of Mandela is here to remind us to keep building a just and peaceful world.”
The sculpture was presented to Mayor Dickens during a previous visit to South Africa and now forms part of the airport’s “Gates to Goal” transformation ahead of the global football tournament.
The airport upgrade, in partnership with Atlanta United FC, includes interactive fan experiences, football memorabilia displays, replica stadium seating and FIFA World Cup-themed installations throughout the airport terminals.
Airport General Manager Ricky Smith described the airport as “the front door to Atlanta and the world”.
Special guests at the unveiling included Ricardo Mackenzie and South African sculptor Marco Olivier.
The unveiling also builds on the Sister Airport agreement signed in 2024 between Atlanta and South African airport authorities, aimed at strengthening tourism, cultural exchange and international cooperation.
As part of the FIFA World Cup celebrations, the airport is also expected to host live entertainment events featuring emerging musical artists in the coming weeks.