FIFA World Cup opening ceremony USA: Katy Perry, Future start the party
FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony USA: Katy Perry and Future Lead the Global Kickoff
Editor's Note: Live Updates for the U.S. Men's National Team's 2026 World Cup Debut
FIFA World Cup opening ceremony USA - The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially began on Friday, June 12, with the U.S. men’s national team taking the field at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. The day’s events started with a grand opening ceremony, designed to electrify the atmosphere and celebrate the tournament’s arrival in the United States. The festivities featured a lineup of international music stars, blending global talent with American flair to create a memorable spectacle.
A Star-Studded Welcome to the World Cup
Among the standout performances was Katy Perry, whose appearance captivated audiences as she performed her hit “Wonder” at the stadium. The pop icon took the stage just 10 minutes before the kickoff, setting the tone for the U.S. team’s debut. Perry began her set by holding the hand of a young boy named Tius Luka, whose voice had been featured in the original version of the song. The 10-year-old, hailing from Norway, had recorded the track when he was just five years old in 2021. Perry shared the story behind the collaboration on her Instagram, explaining that the child’s unique sound inspired the song’s creation. “When I heard his vocals, I knew I had to include them,” she wrote, highlighting the emotional connection that made the performance special.
Global Rhythms on the U.S. Stage
The ceremony’s lineup was as diverse as the participating nations, with artists from across the globe contributing to the event. LISA, a member of BLACKPINK, delivered an energetic performance of “Goals,” a track featured on the World Cup album. Her stage design incorporated white cutouts of Los Angeles landmarks, including a surfboard, palm trees, and the Santa Monica Ferris wheel, symbolizing the host city’s cultural identity. LISA’s outfit—a sleek white corset paired with shorts and boots—was matched by the dancers who accompanied her, who wore similar attire with adidas shorts, knee-high socks, and sneakers.
Following LISA, Anitta made her mark with a dynamic rendition of the same song. The Brazilian singer was revealed dramatically when the dancers parted to reveal a Hollywood sign, surrounded by palm tree cutouts. Anitta’s look included white baggy pants and a layered crop top, while her dancers mirrored her streetwear-inspired style with vests and cargo pants. The performance showcased the unity of the World Cup’s international theme, with artists from different backgrounds coming together to celebrate the spirit of the game.
Rema and Tyla added their flair to the ceremony with a collaborative performance of “Game Time.” Rema entered first, donning a white hoodie and pants adorned with sparkling chains, before Tyla joined with a striking white crop top featuring blue and white stars on the sleeves and blue sweatpants. The duo’s choreography, paired with a pair of dancers, created a visually engaging anthem that energized the crowd and underscored the tournament’s excitement.
Tom Brady’s Hype Video Sets the Stage
Before the opening ceremony, the NFL legend Tom Brady contributed to the pre-game buzz with a promotional video titled “The Pursuit.” The short film, narrated by Brady, highlighted the world’s top soccer teams and their thrilling moments, emphasizing the high stakes of the U.S. debut. “You’re not playing the elementary school team,” Brady said in the clip, underscoring the challenge of facing elite competition. “You’re playing against the other best teams in the world.” His words served as a reminder of the team’s ambition, as they prepared to take on Paraguay in their opening match.
“If it’s in you, let’s go. You’re my team. Let’s ride.”
Brady’s video, while brief, encapsulated the determination required for the U.S. to succeed on the global stage. His perspective as a seven-time Super Bowl champion added a layer of credibility, connecting the world of football with the broader narrative of athletic excellence.
Legacy of the Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony’s timing was meticulously planned, with the event kicking off at 7:41 ET at SoFi Stadium. A ceremonial segment featured an actor in a gold Revolutionary War-style costume, marching on a white stage marked with a blue map of the United States. This visual symbolized the country’s historical role in sports and its continued legacy as a host nation. The performance was accompanied by a drumline, creating a patriotic backdrop before the arrival of a futsal player in a yellow jersey, who added a modern twist to the traditional elements.
The ceremony not only welcomed the tournament to the U.S. but also honored its global nature. Mexico’s opening event, held the previous day, had been headlined by Shakira, who brought her signature flair to the festivities. This contrast highlighted the shared excitement of the World Cup across continents, with each host nation contributing its unique cultural touch to the celebration.
The Spirit of Unity and Performance
As the U.S. team warmed up for their match against Paraguay, the energy of the stadium was palpable. The pre-match anthem, performed by Dan + Shay, resonated with fans, while the sound of Kendrick Lamar’s “tv off” echoed through the crowd. The 8:17 p.m. ET kickoff marked a historic moment, with Christian Pulisic and the squad receiving thunderous applause from the audience. The blend of music, history, and sports created an unforgettable experience, setting the stage for what promises to be a competitive and inspiring tournament.
From Perry’s emotional connection to Tius Luka to the synchronized choreography of LISA and Anitta, the opening ceremony was a masterclass in blending entertainment with sports. Each artist’s performance highlighted the World Cup’s ability to unite people through music and shared passion. As the U.S. co-hosts the tournament, the event underscored the country’s role in shaping the global soccer landscape, with its vibrant culture and creativity shining through every moment.
A Celebration of Sound and National Pride
The musical diversity of the opening ceremony reflected the World Cup’s international appeal. Future’s performance of “Game Time” began with a captivating rap in a sparkly red and silver Louis Vuitton jacket, while Tyla’s entrance added a fresh, youthful energy. The stage design allowed for seamless transitions between acts, ensuring the flow of the event remained engaging throughout. This creative approach to the ceremony demonstrated the organizers’ commitment to delivering an experience that would be remembered for years to come.
As the opening match approached, the stadium buzzed with anticipation. Fans, players, and performers alike were eager to witness the start of what would be a historic tournament. The combination of iconic music, cultural symbolism, and athletic pride created a celebration that honored the past while embracing the future of international soccer. The U.S. team’s debut against Paraguay was more than just a game—it was the beginning of a global journey filled with excitement and possibility.