By Ayomide Otitoju
Nigerian music star Rema is set to perform at the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremonies alongside an array of global artistes, as FIFA unveiled plans for a trilogy of star-studded celebrations across the tournament’s three host nations — Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
FIFA confirmed on Friday that international stars including Katy Perry, Future, Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé, J Balvin, and Lisa will headline the opening festivities.
The celebrations will begin in Mexico City on June 11, ahead of the tournament’s opening match between Mexico and South Africa at the Estadio Azteca, which will be temporarily renamed Mexico City Stadium for the competition.
The Mexico ceremony will feature J Balvin, Mexican rock band Maná, Alejandro Fernandez, Belinda, Lila Downs, South African singer Tyla, and Los Angeles Azules.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the ceremonies would combine music, culture, and football to reflect both the individuality of the host nations and the unity of the global tournament.
Canada’s opening ceremony will take place on June 12 in Toronto before the host nation’s match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Performers will include Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé, Alessia Cara, Elyanna, Jessie Reyez, and Nora Fatehi.
Later the same day, the United States will launch their campaign against Paraguay in Los Angeles with another major entertainment showcase.
The Los Angeles ceremony will feature Katy Perry, Future, Lisa of K-pop group Blackpink, Brazilian singer Anitta, Rema, and Tyla, with FIFA indicating that additional performers will be announced later.
Infantino described the Los Angeles ceremony as a reflection of the cultural diversity and musical influence of the United States, adding that the performances would highlight music’s ability to unite people across borders.
Other artistes expected to perform during the World Cup festivities include Venezuelan reggaeton singer Danny Ocean and Bangladeshi-American DJ Sanjoy.
According to FIFA, fans attending the ceremonies will also play an active role in the celebrations, which organisers said would be connected by “a shared heartbeat” across different countries and time zones.
