FIFA has unveiled a star-studded lineup for the opening ceremonies of the 2024 World Cup, with Katy Perry, Michael Buble, Alanis Morissette, J Balvin, Tyla, and Future set to perform across three host nations. The ceremonies will precede the first matches in each country, marking the first time the tournament opens with multiple events across North America.
This unique format reflects the collaborative hosting by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, a first in World Cup history. Each ceremony will celebrate the host nation's culture and music before the opening whistle of their respective matches.
The first ceremony takes place on June 11 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where Colombian reggaeton star J Balvin and South African singer-songwriter Tyla will perform before Mexico takes on South Africa. The Azteca, a legendary venue that hosted the 1970 and 1986 World Cup finals, provides a historic backdrop for the tournament's kickoff.
The following day, Canada's opening ceremony at BMO Field in Toronto will feature Canadian icons Michael Buble and Alanis Morissette. The duo will perform before the Canadian men's team faces Bosnia and Herzegovina, a momentous occasion as Canada hosts its first men's World Cup match.
Also on June 12, SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles will host the USA's opening ceremony, headlined by pop superstar Katy Perry and rapper Future. The event precedes the USA vs. Paraguay match, with Perry's high-energy performance expected to draw a massive global audience.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the unifying power of these ceremonies: "The FIFA World Cup is a moment the world shares, and that begins with how we open it. Starting with Mexico City and continuing with Toronto and Los Angeles, these ceremonies will bring together music, culture, and football in a way that reflects both the individuality of each nation and the unity that defines this tournament."
Additionally, Colombian pop star Shakira has teased her official tournament song featuring Nigerian singer Burna Boy, adding to the musical buildup. The multi-venue opening approach mirrors the growing trend of decentralized major events, offering fans across North America a chance to participate in the festivities.
For the performers, these slots represent career milestones: Perry previously headlined the Super Bowl halftime show, while Buble and Morissette bring decades of Canadian music heritage. J Balvin and Tyla represent Latin and African pop, aligning with the tournament's global reach.
The ceremonies are expected to run 30-45 minutes each, blending local traditions with international appeal. As the World Cup expands to 48 teams in 2026, this year's triple opening could set a precedent for future tournaments.
With 104 matches ahead, the opening ceremonies promise to set an energetic tone. Fans can expect spectacular visuals and surprise collaborations, making these events as anticipated as the games themselves.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.
