Full Breakdown
U.S. Opening Ceremony Launches the 2026 FIFA World Cup
6/13/2026, 9:34:32 PM
Core Event: Spectacle and Match in Los Angeles
On Friday June 12, 2026, SoFi Stadium in Inglewood hosted the United States’ opening ceremony followed by the Group D match USA vs Paraguay. The pre-match show began at 7:30 p.m. ET (4:30 p.m. PT) and lasted roughly 13 minutes. After the performances, the U.S. men’s national team took the field and secured a 4-1 victory.
Background & Context: Three Host Nations, Expanded Field
The 2026 tournament is the first World Cup co-hosted by three countries—Mexico, Canada and the United States—and the first to feature 48 national teams, up from the previous 32. Each host nation staged its own opening ceremony: Mexico on June 11, Canada on June 12, and the United States on June 12.
Key Figures & Performers
- Katy Perry – headlined the U.S. show, performing “Wonder” with 10-year-old Norwegian singer Tius Luka.
- Future – opened the musical segment with the World Cup anthem “Game Time.”
- Tyla – South African singer joined Future for “Game Time.”
- Lisa (BLACKPINK) – performed the collaborative track “Goals.”
- Anitta – Brazilian pop star featured on “Goals.”
- Rema – Nigerian artist also appeared on “Goals.”
- Dan + Shay – sang the U.S. national anthem; Purahei Soul performed Paraguay’s anthem.
- Marco Rubio – U.S. Secretary of State attended the ceremony; President Donald Trump did not.
Data & Statistics
- 48 nations competing in the tournament.
- 6 primary musical acts (Perry, Future, Tyla, Lisa, Anitta, Rema).
- Ceremony length: ?13 minutes.
- Stadium capacity: ?70,200 seats.
- A beer at the venue cost $23.50.
- Total matches in the tournament: 104.
Official Statements & Responses
FIFA organizers said the performer lineup was chosen to showcase the United States’ “rich diversity” and to reflect the cultural mosaic of its diaspora communities. The event’s production team emphasized that the show was designed to “celebrate the power of music to bring people together across the country.” U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was listed as the official government representative in attendance, while President Donald Trump opted to send his best wishes by phone.
Criticism & Opposition
Fans and commentators highlighted the “punishing” cost of tickets and ancillary items, with Chicago Outlaws captain Phil Labas describing ticket prices as “absolutely punishing.” The high price of a single beer ($23.50) was also cited as evidence of the tournament’s commercial excess.
On-the-Ground Reports
Spectators filled the stadium in red, white and blue, chanting “USA! USA!” throughout the ceremony. A flag parade representing all 48 participating nations marched before kickoff, and celebrities—including Tom Cruise, David Beckham and Paris Hilton—occupied the stands. The giant “FIFA” letters suspended above the field were illuminated as the performers took the stage.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the exact kickoff time: some list 9 p.m. ET (June 12), while a Ukrainian outlet reported the match starting at 4:00 a.m. GMT+5. Likewise, ceremony start times are given as 7:30 p.m. ET in most U.S. outlets, but a separate report cited a 04:30 GMT+5 start, reflecting time-zone conversion inconsistencies.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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,” — Gianni Infantino, FIFA President
- “It's very fitting for the ceremonial song that I get to sing,” — Katy Perry, pop star (People interview)
- “I think you’ve a really good chance of going all the way. I just want to wish you a lot of luck.” — Donald Trump, former U.S. president (phone call)
- “It's an absolutely punishing number with regards to the ticket prices to get into a game,” — Phil Labas, Chicago Outlaws captain
Why It Matters / Impact
The ceremony underscored the United States’ return to hosting the World Cup after 32 years, using a star-studded lineup to project a narrative of inclusivity and global connectivity. By integrating performers from six continents, the event aimed to position the tournament as a cultural as well as sporting milestone.
What’s Next
The United States will face Turkey and Australia in Group D, while the tournament’s closing ceremony—featuring Coldplay, Madonna and Shakira—is slated for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
