As the countdown to the biggest FIFA World Cup in history begins, one of the tournament’s most talked-about announcements has come from the world of music and pop culture. BLACKPINK star Lisa is officially set to perform at the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony in Los Angeles, marking another major global milestone in her rapidly expanding international career.
FIFA confirmed that the 2026 edition of the tournament will feature three separate opening ceremonies across the United States, Mexico, and Canada for the first time ever, celebrating the World Cup’s historic expansion to 48 teams and 104 matches.
Lisa will headline the United States ceremony at Los Angeles Stadium on June 12 ahead of the USA’s opening match against Paraguay. The event is scheduled to begin 90 minutes before kickoff and is expected to deliver a large-scale entertainment spectacle combining football, music, and visual storytelling. The Thai rapper and singer will join a star-studded lineup featuring Katy Perry, Future, Anitta, Rema and Tyla. FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the ceremony as a reflection of the cultural diversity and entertainment influence 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 in a statement. “The lineup of artists reflects the cultural diversity of the United States and the vibrancy of its many diasporas, highlighting the nation’s rich influence on music, entertainment and pop culture, while showcasing the power of music to bring people together across the country.”
For Lisa, the performance further cements her growing status as one of Asia’s biggest global entertainers. Over the past few years, the BLACKPINK member has successfully transitioned into a solo international icon, balancing chart success, fashion partnerships, acting appearances, and major global performances. Her inclusion in one of the world’s most-watched sporting events reflects the increasing crossover between football and global pop culture. The FIFA World Cup opening ceremony has historically featured some of the entertainment industry’s biggest names. Artists such as Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, and Jungkook have all performed at previous editions of the tournament.
FIFA’s decision to host multiple opening ceremonies across North America signals a major shift in how the governing body plans to present the competition. Mexico City will host the tournament’s first celebration on June 11 before Mexico faces South Africa, while Toronto will stage Canada’s ceremony on June 12 ahead of their clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Canadian ceremony will feature artists including Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé, and Alessia Cara. Meanwhile, Mexico’s celebrations are expected to showcase Latin music stars such as J Balvin, Belinda, and Maná.
Organisers have described the concept behind the ceremonies as a “shared heartbeat,” designed to connect fans across different countries and time zones through music, football, and culture. The Los Angeles show, which is being produced in partnership with Balich Wonder Studio, will reportedly feature immersive visuals and live performances inspired by themes of national identity and global unity.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will run from June 11 to July 19 across 16 host cities in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The final is scheduled to take place at New York New Jersey Stadium, while Mexico City’s iconic Estadio Azteca will host the tournament’s opening match.
