Nigerian Afrobeats star Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, will perform at the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States.
FIFA confirmed the development in a statement shared on its official social media handle on Saturday.
Rema joins a global lineup that includes South African singer Tyla, American rapper Future, pop star Katy Perry, Brazilian artist Anitta, and BLACKPINK member LISA.
FIFA Plans Three Opening Ceremonies
FIFA announced that the 2026 World Cup will feature three separate opening ceremonies across the host nations.
Mexico City will host the first ceremony on June 11, 2026. Toronto and Los Angeles will stage ceremonies on June 12.
The football body described the celebrations as a blend of music, entertainment, and football culture.
“For the first time in FIFA World Cup history, a new benchmark will be set as three spectacular opening ceremonies unfold across Mexico City, Toronto and Los Angeles,” FIFA stated.
Los Angeles Ceremony to Feature Global Stars
According to FIFA, the Los Angeles event will showcase performances from several international music stars.
“Global superstars Katy Perry, Future, Anitta, LISA, Rema and Tyla will headline the celebrations in Los Angeles,” the statement added.
FIFA also revealed that more artists would join the lineup in the coming months.
The organisation said the ceremony would begin 90 minutes before kickoff. Fans were encouraged to arrive early for entertainment activities around the stadium.
Infantino Speaks on Cultural Diversity
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the artist selection reflects the cultural diversity of the United States.
“This opening ceremony in Los Angeles represents the extraordinary scale of what the FIFA World Cup 2026 will become,” Infantino said.
He added that music remains a strong force for unity across cultures and communities.
Tournament to Feature Record 104 Matches
FIFA confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will feature 104 matches across 16 host cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The tournament will begin on June 11, 2026, in Mexico City.
The final match will take place on July 19, 2026, at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
FIFA also disclosed that Balich Wonder Studio will produce the opening ceremony with immersive visuals, storytelling, and live performances built around the FIFA World Cup Trophy.
