LOS ANGELES, June 13, 2026 — The United States hosted the final chapter of the 2026 FIFA World Cup’s historic three-country opening celebrations on Friday, delivering a spectacular show at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles before the Group D match between the United States and Paraguay.
The ceremony began 90 minutes before kickoff, marking the first time since 1994 that the United States has hosted World Cup matches on home soil. The event followed earlier opening celebrations in Mexico City and Toronto, completing the tournament’s unprecedented three-nation launch.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the Los Angeles show reflected the cultural diversity of the United States, the energy of its many diaspora communities, and the power of music to unite people.
Music, Culture and Global Stars
The ceremony opened with a powerful drumline performance before American rapper Future and South African pop star Tyla took the stage to perform their collaboration “Game Time,” energizing the packed stadium.
One of the evening’s most anticipated moments featured Lisa, Brazilian singer Anitta and Nigerian rapper Rema performing their multilingual track “Goals” live for the first time. The performance blended Latin pop, K-pop and Afrobeats, symbolizing the global spirit of the tournament.
Katy Perry Shares Stage with Young Norwegian Talent
Pop superstar Katy Perry delivered one of the night’s most memorable performances alongside 10-year-old Norwegian singer Tews Luka. The pair performed “Wonder,” with Perry leading the chorus and Luka providing the song’s closing vocals.
Luka first recorded vocals for the song at the age of five in 2021, inspiring Perry to write the track. Their performance highlighted the young singer’s remarkable journey from a childhood recording to the World Cup stage.
National Anthems and Hollywood Flair
Country-pop duo Dan + Shay performed the U.S. national anthem, while Paraguayan artist Purahéi Soul sang Paraguay’s anthem.
Actor and comedian Jason Sudeikis, a FIFA World Cup 2026 ambassador, welcomed fans to Los Angeles, adding humor and warmth to the festivities.
Historic Opening Celebrations Come to an End
All three opening ceremonies were directed by renowned creative director Marco Balich, known for his work on Olympic opening ceremonies. From Mexico City’s vibrant performances to Toronto’s Indigenous cultural showcase and Los Angeles’ Hollywood-style spectacle, the three events together marked the first three-country opening celebration in World Cup history.
With the ceremonies complete, attention now turns to the action on the pitch as the United States begins its home World Cup campaign in front of its own fans for the first time in more than three decades.
