The 2026 FIFA World Cup has commenced with a series of grand opening ceremonies across North America, each reflecting the unique cultural heritage of the host nations. In the United States, the opening ceremony took place on June 12 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, featuring a star-studded lineup headlined by Katy Perry.
Katy Perry delivered a dynamic performance, captivating the audience with her chart-topping hits. She was joined by an array of international artists, including rapper Future, Brazilian singer Anitta, Thai rapper and Blackpink member LISA, Nigerian singer Rema, and South African singer Tyla. The ceremony began at 4:30 p.m. PT, 90 minutes before the kickoff of the match between the United States and Paraguay. (fifa.com)
This event marked a historic first for the FIFA World Cup, as it featured three separate opening ceremonies across the host countries. The festivities commenced on June 11 in Mexico City, where Shakira and Burna Boy performed the official World Cup song, "Dai Dai," at Estadio Azteca. The following day, Toronto hosted Canada's opening ceremony at BMO Field, showcasing performances by Michael Bublé, Alanis Morissette, and Alessia Cara. (forbes.com)
The Los Angeles ceremony not only highlighted the United States' rich musical diversity but also set the tone for the tournament's celebratory atmosphere. Fans worldwide tuned in to witness this unique blend of sports and entertainment, underscoring the unifying power of the World Cup. (fifa.com)