LISA, Shakira, Katy Perry and More Rock The Opening Ceremony of The 2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off in spectacular fashion this week with a first-of-its-kind opening celebration spanning three countries and featuring a lineup more reminiscent of a global music festival than a sporting event. From Mexico City to Toronto to Los Angeles, stars including Shakira, Katy Perry, BLACKPINK’s Lisa, Burna Boy, Anitta, Rema, Tyla and more welcomed the world to football’s biggest tournament.
The festivities began in Mexico City, where Shakira returned to the World Cup stage alongside Burna Boy to debut the tournament’s official anthem, “Dai Dai.” They were joined by J Balvin, Belinda, Alejandro Fernández and Los Ángeles Azules ahead of the tournament opener between Mexico and South Africa. The performance continued Shakira’s long association with FIFA after global hits such as “Waka Waka” and “La La La.”
Canada’s ceremony in Toronto celebrated the country’s first World Cup as a host nation with performances from Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé, Alessia Cara, Nora Fatehi, Elyanna and Vegedream before Canada faced Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The starriest lineup arrived in Los Angeles, where Katy Perry headlined the U.S. ceremony at SoFi Stadium. Perry performed “Wonder,” while Lisa, Anitta and Rema delivered the World Cup song “Goals.” Future and Tyla later took the stage for “Game Time,” turning the event into a full-scale concert before the United States opened its campaign against Paraguay.
The ceremonies highlighted FIFA’s unprecedented three-country hosting format, with each nation staging its own celebration before its opening match. According to FIFA and broadcast reports, millions tuned in worldwide across television and streaming platforms to watch the performances.
The World Cup now moves into its group-stage schedule across 16 host cities. Matches will be played in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey; Toronto and Vancouver; and U.S. venues including Los Angeles, New York/New Jersey, Dallas, Houston, Miami, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Seattle, Boston, Kansas City and San Francisco Bay Area.