FIFA has confirmed that Nigerian superstar Rema will perform at the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony in Los Angeles on June 12. He joins a headline lineup that includes Katy Perry, Future, Anitta, LISA, and South African singer Tyla, with additional artists still to be announced.
Rema and Tyla Represent Africa
Rema and Tyla are the only African artists currently confirmed for the global event. Their inclusion highlights the growing commercial and cultural footprint of African music on the world stage. FIFA President Gianni 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.'
Ceremony Details
The ceremony will be held at the Los Angeles Stadium, beginning 90 minutes before kick-off at 16:30 local time. It marks one of three opening ceremonies FIFA is staging across the tournament's three host nations, a first in World Cup history. Mexico City hosts the opening event on June 11, with Toronto and Los Angeles following on June 12.
World Cup Format and Schedule
This edition of the World Cup is the largest in the competition's history. A record 104 matches are scheduled across 16 host cities, running from June 11 through to the final on July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium. The expanded format features 48 nations competing for the first time, drawing attention for its scale and logistical complexity.
Stadium gates open four hours before kick-off, with pre-match activations and live entertainment throughout the venue. Tickets remain available via FIFA.com/tickets, with additional releases expected throughout the tournament.
Rema's Career Milestone
For Rema, whose 'Calm Down' became one of the most-streamed Afrobeats songs in history, performing at the World Cup opening ceremony adds another major international milestone to his rapidly growing career. The United States opens the tournament against Paraguay at the same venue later that evening.
