South African music superstar Tyla is preparing for one of the biggest moments of her career as she takes centre stage at the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremonies, further cementing her status as one of Africa’s most influential global stars.
The Grammy Award-winning singer is set to perform in Mexico City ahead of the tournament’s opening match between South Africa and Mexico, placing her at the heart of one of the most anticipated sporting events on the planet.
In a moment that is expected to resonate deeply with South Africans around the world, Tyla will also perform the South African national anthem before kick-off. With millions of football fans tuning in globally, her appearance will showcase not only her remarkable talent but also South Africa’s growing cultural influence on the international stage.
The performance represents another major milestone for the Johannesburg-born artist, whose meteoric rise has transformed her into one of the most recognisable names in contemporary music. Since breaking through with her chart-topping hit Water, Tyla has continued to dominate global music charts, earn prestigious awards and introduce millions of listeners to the sounds and rhythms of South African and African music.
Her participation in the FIFA World Cup celebrations highlights the increasing role African artists are playing in major international events. Over the past few years, African music genres such as Amapiano and Afrobeats have experienced explosive global growth, with artists from the continent becoming regular fixtures on international charts and festival line-ups.
The #FIFAWorldCup opening ceremony will kick off at 8:30pm on Thursday with Mexico 🇲🇽 v South Africa 🇿🇦 set for 10pm (EAT).
Performances:
▪️ Alejandro Fernández will perform the Mexican national anthem
▪️Tyla will perform the South African anthem
▪️ Belinda, Burna Boy, Danny… pic.twitter.com/VukogLKed1— Eric Njiru ⚽️ (@EricNjiiru) June 10, 2026
Tyla’s connection to the tournament extends beyond her opening ceremony appearance. The singer also features on the official FIFA World Cup 2026 album through the track Game Time, a collaboration with American rap superstar Future. The song is expected to become one of the soundtrack anthems of the tournament and will feature prominently in FIFA’s global celebrations.
Speaking about her involvement with the World Cup, Tyla described the opportunity as a “full-circle moment” for a South African artist. Her comments reflect the country’s special connection to football’s biggest tournament after South Africa made history by becoming the first African nation to host the FIFA World Cup in 2010.
For many South Africans, Tyla’s appearance at the opening ceremony represents more than just a musical performance. It symbolises the country’s ability to produce world-class talent capable of competing and succeeding on the global stage.
The timing is particularly significant as Bafana Bafana prepare to begin their World Cup campaign against the host nation. Fans will have the rare opportunity to see South Africa represented both on the football field and on the entertainment stage during one of the tournament’s most watched moments.
Social media has already been flooded with messages of support and excitement from fans eager to see Tyla perform before a worldwide audience. Many have praised FIFA’s decision to include her in the opening celebrations, noting that she has become one of the most successful South African artists of her generation.
As the world turns its attention to Mexico City, Tyla’s performance is expected to deliver a memorable celebration of South African pride, African creativity and the unifying power of music and sport.
Before the first whistle blows and the tournament officially begins, South Africa will already have a star shining brightly on the global stage.
