Pop star Katy Perry will headline the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States, according to a report by Billboard. The tournament will take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico. FIFA plans to begin the event with large music and cultural celebrations.
Katy Perry is expected to perform at SoFi Stadium on June 12 before the United States plays Paraguay in one of the tournament’s opening matches.
Katy Perry Confirms FIFA World Cup Performance
Katy Perry confirmed the news on Instagram and shared her excitement with fans. “Kicking my feet because I'm performing at the @fifaworldcup 2026 Opening Ceremony in Los Angeles on June 12th! Stay tuned for more info - don't let this be #TheOneThatGotAway,” she wrote.
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Fans quickly reacted online and celebrated the announcement. Perry is famous for hit songs like Firework, Roar and Teenage Dream.
FIFA World Cup 2026 To Feature Global Music Stars
FIFA will also bring several international artists to the opening celebrations. The line-up reportedly includes Future, Lisa from Blackpink, Tyla, Anitta, Rema and DJ Sanjoy.
Meanwhile, the opening ceremony in Mexico City on June 11 will feature performances by Alejandro Fernández, Danny Ocean, Lila Downs, Belinda, J Balvin, Los Ángeles Azules and Maná. FIFA wants to combine football, music and culture on a massive scale during the tournament.
Shakira Returns With New FIFA World Cup Song
Shakira will also return to the FIFA World Cup stage. Her 2010 anthem Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) became one of the most popular football songs in history.
Now, she has announced a new song titled Dai Dai for the 2026 tournament. The singer recently shared a teaser video filmed at Maracanã Stadium and confirmed that the full song will release on May 14. The track also features Burna Boy.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Will Be the Biggest Ever
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will run from June 11 to July 19. It will become the first FIFA World Cup hosted by three countries together — the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The tournament will also become the biggest World Cup in history. A total of 48 teams will compete in 104 matches. Mexico City will host the opening match, while New Jersey will host the final. FIFA aims to turn the 2026 edition into one of the world’s biggest sports and entertainment events.