FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to have a big musical impact this edition. The exhilarating competition of prestige between the nations will experience a melodious reprieve. The World Cup will feature a number of well-known performers who will entertain spectators at several opening ceremonies and a unique halftime show during the final match. The tournament's first halftime spectacle in almost a century will take place on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

With BLACKPINK member and solo phenomenon Lisa and Brazilian singer Anitta, the US shows will have an enormous crowd pull. Rapper Future introduces Atlanta hip-hop to the world of soccer, while pop icon Katy Perry will add her trademark stadium extravaganza. Rapper Rema and singer Tyla will also add their flair to the ceremonies.

Internationally renowned Canadian performers, such as jazz-pop favorite Michael Bublé, are the centerpiece of Canada's opening ceremony roster. Alternative rock artist Alanis Morissette lends a renowned Canadian presence to the celebration. Furthermore, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Alessia Cara brings modern pop and R&B. While this is an already scintillating lineup, it goes even further. Performers like Elyanna, Jessie Reyez, Nora Fatehi, Sanjoy, Vegedream, and William Prince step in to take it up a notch. 

From the Mexican side, Colombian reggaetón phenomenon J Balvin joins the lineup. Alejandro Fernández, a legendary figure in regional music, is anticipated to give one of the ceremony's most poignant performances. Los Ángeles Azules, a popular cumbia group, will bring their distinctive party vibe to the global arena. The event will also have a pop and urban touch thanks to the inclusion of Venezuelan hitmaker Danny Ocean and Mexican pop diva Belinda. In the meantime, Tyla also comes in with her Afropop influence and Lila Downs with her traditional Mexican compositions. The Mexico celebration will be seen through by rock legends Maná.

While these were just the lineups for the pre-game ceremonies in each host nation, there is also a special final half-time lineup arranged.

The half-time lineup for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final 

On July 19, MetLife Stadium in New Jersey will host the FIFA World Cup final. FIFA confirmed on May 14 that the halftime show will feature BTS, Madonna, and Shakira. According to FIFA, the event will generate money for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. The fund seeks to increase children's access to high-quality education and soccer worldwide.

With the official anthem 'Dai Dai,' a joint effort with Nigerian international sensation Burna Boy, Shakira is formally making a comeback for the 2026 competition. Shakira became one of the rare performers who have led several official FIFA World Cup song campaigns in various eras with 'Dai Dai.' Going by these efforts, it is obvious that the opening ceremonies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will go well beyond soccer.

Which of the performances are you looking forward to the most? Do let us know.

Written by

Harshit Kumar

Edited by

Itti Mahajan