Katy Perry is set to take the stage during the opening ceremony of the much-anticipated FIFA 2026 World Cup in Los Angeles on Friday, June 12. The pop sensation, aged 41, expressed her excitement in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, revealing that her performance will feature a song she has never sung live before.
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In a recent appearance at the Tribeca Festival premiere of her concert film, “Katy Perry: The Lifetimes Tour — Live from Paris,” Perry shared insights into her forthcoming performance. She described the tune as particularly suitable for the ceremonial atmosphere of the festival, hinting that it is a song from one of her previous albums. “It’s not new,” Perry confessed, adding that she is eager to unveil this special track to her fans.
The FIFA 2026 World Cup will officially commence on Thursday, June 11, with a match featuring Mexico against South Africa in Mexico City. This edition of the tournament marks a historic milestone, as it will include 48 teams from around the world competing for the prestigious title. The event is expected to wrap up on Sunday, July 19.
The opening ceremony in Mexico City promises an array of entertainment, with performances from notable artists, including Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, J Balvin, and Shakira. Shakira, in particular, will debut “Dai Dai,” the official song for this year’s tournament. The spectacle will celebrate the vibrant cultures of the nations represented at the World Cup.
Following the Mexico City ceremony, a second event will take place in Toronto on June 12 at BMO Field. Fans can look forward to performances by Alanis Morissette, Jessie Reyez, and Michael Bublé, among others. Later in the day, Katy Perry will join an impressive lineup of artists in the United States, including Future, Anitta, and Rema, for the opening ceremony.
In addition to her performance, Dan + Shay have been selected to sing the US national anthem, while Purahei Soul will represent Paraguay by singing their anthem during the ceremony. The festivities surrounding the tournament are poised to draw commercial and public interest, linking global celebrations with sporting excellence.
Perry’s participation comes on the heels of her successful “Lifetimes” tour, which concluded in late 2025. This music tour featured a range of hits from her latest album, “143,” including tracks such as “Woman’s World” and “Nirvana,” as well as fan favourites like “California Gurls” and “Firework.” Her new concert film will be shown in theatres later this summer, bringing her latest musical journey to an even wider audience.
Reflecting on the difference between her current project and her earlier concert documentary, “Part of Me,” which documented her California Dreams tour, Perry stated, “That was more of a documentary about my life, and this is really a concert experience at the highest level for my fans.” Emphasising her appreciation for her supporters, Perry noted, “I’m doing all of this for my fans because they’re the ones who helped me along for all these years, for over 18 years.”
As anticipation builds for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, millions of sports enthusiasts and music lovers are preparing for what promises to be a remarkable series of events. The opening ceremony will begin at 1:30 p.m. EST / 4:30 p.m. PST on June 12, with the much-anticipated match between the United States and Paraguay kicking off at 3 p.m. EST / 6 p.m. PST, broadcasted live on Fox Sports and Telemundo.
Katy Perry’s involvement in the tournament highlights the intersection of sports and popular culture, offering fans an extraordinary spectacle that showcases talent from around the world. With the blend of sporting prowess and artistic flair, the 2026 World Cup is set to be an unforgettable experience for all attending.