The FIFA World Cup 2026 celebrations continued in style as global music stars Katy Perry, Lisa, Future, Tyla and several other international artists took center stage at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Friday.
The event served as the opening ceremony for the United States leg of the tournament, one of three ceremonies being held across the host nations of the United States, Canada and Mexico. Thousands of fans packed the stadium ahead of the United States' opening match against Paraguay, witnessing an evening filled with music, entertainment and star power.
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Katy Perry delivers emotional performance
Pop sensation Katy Perry drew loud cheers from the crowd with a moving rendition of her song Wonder. Taking the stage shortly before kickoff, Perry was joined by Tius Luka, who originally recorded the track with her in 2021.
The performance opened with Perry holding Luka's hand as the young singer delivered the song's opening line. The emotional moment quickly became one of the highlights of the ceremony. Perry also caught attention online with a shimmering silver outfit featuring a dramatic flared design.
Lisa, Future and Tyla energise the crowd
The atmosphere shifted from emotional to electrifying as Future and Tyla performed Game Time, the official song of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
K-pop star Lisa of BLACKPINK later took the stage alongside Brazilian singer Anitta and Nigerian artist Rema. The trio performed Goals, another track from the tournament's official album.
Dressed in a white corset paired with matching shorts and boots, Lisa performed with a group of dancers wearing sports-inspired costumes, adding to the spectacle inside the stadium.
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World Cup celebrations span three host nations
The Los Angeles event was part of a larger celebration taking place across North America. The tournament officially kicked off on June 11 in Mexico City with Mexico facing South Africa.
Mexico City's opening ceremony featured performances by Shakira and Burna Boy, while Toronto hosted a separate event showcasing artists including Alanis Morissette, Alessia Cara, Elyanna, Jessie Reyez, Michael Bublé and Bollywood star Nora Fatehi.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the biggest edition of the tournament so far, featuring 48 teams competing across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The competition will conclude with the final on July 19.
