Rema Makes History As FIFA Picks Nigerian Star For 2026 World Cup Opener

Published May 10, 2026 at 3:04 PM

Nigerian Afrobeats sensation, Rema, has been confirmed as one of the headline performers for the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Los Angeles.

FIFA announced that the “Calm Down” crooner will take the stage on June 12 alongside international stars including Katy Perry, Future, Tyla, Anitta and Lisa.

In a major shift from previous editions, FIFA President Gianni Infantino revealed that the 2026 World Cup will kick off with three simultaneous opening ceremonies across the host countries.

The celebrations will begin on June 11 at Estadio Azteca, where Tyla will perform alongside stars such as J Balvin, Maná, Alejandro Fernández and Belinda before Mexico’s clash against South Africa.

On June 12, BMO Field will host Canada’s ceremony featuring performances from