Muhammad Ali’s funeral will be open to the public. (Getty)
Muhammad Ali’s funeral will take place on Friday in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. The legendary boxer will be celebrated with a procession going through Louisville and then a large, public funeral in a venue that holds tens of thousands.
Here’s what you need to know.
1. Muhammad Ali’s Funeral Will Take Place on Friday, June 10
Years before he died, Muhammad Ali shared with his family how he wanted his funeral to take place. Now they are following his wishes and holding a daylong event that honors his life and his legacy. The funeral itself will be held this Friday, June 10, in Louisville, Kentucky where Muhammad Ali grew up and learned to box. The funeral will begin at 2 p.m. local time. The funeral will also be translated and streamed online live. We’ll post a link to the online streaming here once it’s available.
2. A Procession Will Lead through the Streets of Louisville Where Ali Grew Up
The day will begin with a morning procession that leads through the streets of Louisville. The procession will move slowly so mourners can pay their respects. The funeral procession will pass through areas that were historically important to Ali, including a street named after him, his old neighborhood, and areas where photos were taken of him after he returned from the Olympics.
3. Bill Clinton Will Be Among the People Delivering Eulogies
Former president Bill Clinton will be among the people delivering eulogies at Ali’s funeral. News anchor Bryant Gumbel and comedian Billy Crystal will also deliver eulogies.
4. The Funeral Will Take Place at a Sports Arena That Holds 22,000
The funeral itself will take place at the KFC YUM! Center in Louisville. The sports arena holds 22,000 people. The funeral will be open to the public. A private burial with just the family will take place later at Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville.
5. Ali’s Funeral Will Embrace Different Religions
Ali’s funeral will be led by an imam, following Muslim tradition. However, the funeral will also incorporate elements from other religions and beliefs, including a variety of clergy. Ali’s family wants the funeral to be open to people of all different faiths.