…“the world will share this moment, and that’s how this tournament will begin,” FIFA president Gianni Infantino said in a statement.
SPORT- The iNews Times| Global music stars including Katy Perry, Future, Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé, J Balvin and Lisa are set to headline the opening ceremonies of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, FIFA announced on Friday.
The tournament festivities will officially begin in Mexico City, with a major pre-match celebration scheduled 90 minutes before the opening fixture between Mexico and South Africa on June 11 at the iconic Azteca Stadium, temporarily renamed Mexico City Stadium for the competition.
The Mexico ceremony will feature Colombian superstar J Balvin, legendary Mexican rock band Maná, and pop singer Alejandro Fernández, son of late ranchera icon Vicente Fernández.
Also billed to perform are Mexican pop star Belinda, singer-songwriter Lila Downs, South African star Tyla, and Los Ángeles Azules, renowned for their traditional Mexican cumbia sound.
“The world will share this moment, and that’s how this tournament will begin,” FIFA president Gianni Infantino said in a statement.
“Starting with Mexico City and continuing the next days with Toronto and Los Angeles, these ceremonies will bring together music, culture and football in a way that reflects both the individuality of each nation and the unity that defines this tournament,” he added.
In Toronto, where Canada will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in its opening match on June 12, artists set to perform include Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé, Alessia Cara, Elyanna, Jessie Reyez and Nora Fatehi.
Organisers promised fans “a journey across Canada” showcasing the country’s culture and diversity from coast to coast.
Later that same day, the United States will open its campaign against Paraguay in Los Angeles, where another star-packed entertainment lineup is expected.
Katy Perry, who famously headlined the Super Bowl XLIX Halftime Show in 2015, will lead the performances alongside rapper Future, Lisa of Blackpink, Brazilian superstar Anitta, Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Rema, and Tyla, with more performers expected to be announced.
“This opening ceremony in Los Angeles represents the extraordinary scale of what the FIFA World Cup 2026 will become,” Infantino stated.
“The lineup of artists reflects the cultural diversity of the United States and the vibrancy of its many diasporas, highlighting the nation’s rich influence on music, entertainment and pop culture while showcasing the power of music to bring people together across the country.”
