FIFA Plans Star-Studded World Cup Opening Ceremonies Featuring Katy Perry, Lisa and Michael Bublé

According to The Athletic, sources familiar with the matter have revealed that FIFA has arranged a series of performances ahead of kickoff for this summer’s World Cup opening matches involving co-hosts Canada, Mexico, and United States.

FIFA is planning separate opening ceremonies for each host nation’s first match of the tournament. In addition, special ceremonies will be held on July 4 in Houston and Philadelphia to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.

FIFA will encourage fans to arrive early to watch the ceremonies, which are scheduled to begin 90 minutes before kickoff. Planning documents seen by The Athletic show that Mexico’s opening ceremony is currently expected to last 16 minutes and 30 seconds, while the ceremonies in the United States and Canada are planned to run for 13 minutes each.

Among the confirmed performers are Canadian singers Michael Bublé, Alanis Morissette, and Alessia Cara. They are expected to appear during Canada’s opening group-stage match against Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team on June 12 in Toronto.

Later that same day, the United States men's national soccer team will begin their campaign against Paraguay national football team at SoFi Stadium near Los Angeles. Katy Perry is set to headline the event, while Lisa from BLACKPINK will also perform.

Mexico’s opening match will take place on June 11 at Estadio Azteca, where Mexico national football team will face South Africa national football team. Performers will include Grammy-winning Mexican rock band Maná, pop singer Alejandro Fernández, and singer Belinda. FIFA has also invited La Sonora Dinamita, known for performing traditional cumbia music, to join the celebrations.