Tyla to perform South African national anthem at 2026 World Cup opening ceremony

Renowned South African pop star Tyla will perform the national anthem of South Africa during the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, football’s global governing body FIFA has confirmed.

The announcement places the rising global music sensation at the centre of one of the tournament’s most high-profile moments, as organisers prepare for a star-studded ceremony to kick off the expanded World Cup.

Tyla is expected to take the stage during the official opening celebrations, a platform traditionally reserved for some of the world’s most prominent artists, underscoring her rapid ascent on the international music scene.

On the sporting front, South Africa’s national team will begin their World Cup campaign against hosts Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca. The match is scheduled to kick off at 19:00 GMT.

The fixture marks a significant opening test for South Africa, as they look to make a strong start on football’s biggest stage in one of the tournament’s most historic venues.