
Noko Mashilo
South African music star Tyla is expected to be among the performers at the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening celebrations scheduled to take place in Los Angeles, where global entertainment will mark the start of the tournament’s North American edition.
The opening show in Los Angeles forms part of a multi-city launch planned across the United States, Mexico and Canada as FIFA introduces a new format for the expanded 48-team World Cup. The Los Angeles event is set to be held at SoFi Stadium and will feature a lineup of international artists representing different regions and music genres.
Tyla’s inclusion reflects her growing global influence following the success of her breakout hits, which have pushed her into mainstream international recognition over the past two years. Her expected appearance places her alongside other high-profile performers announced for the opening celebrations.
The World Cup festivities will begin with ceremonies across the three host nations, with Mexico City and Toronto also staging opening events. The Los Angeles show is expected to be one of the headline entertainment moments leading into the tournament.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first edition hosted by three countries and the first to expand to 48 participating teams, making it the largest tournament in the competition’s history.