South African music sensation Tyla is set to take centre stage at one of the biggest sporting events on the planet after being selected to perform the South African National Anthem during the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Grammy-winning star will headline the spectacular opening event in Mexico City on 11 June, moments before South Africa’s highly anticipated opening match against hosts Mexico. The announcement has sent waves of excitement across South Africa, with fans eager to see one of the country’s biggest global stars represent the nation on football’s grandest stage.
Tyla’s performance forms part of the Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Album, which features her collaboration with American rap superstar Future on the anthem “Game Time.” The star-studded musical lineup also includes international artists such as Katy Perry and Nigerian hitmaker Rema, promising an unforgettable celebration before the tournament kicks off.
For Tyla, the opportunity carries deep personal significance. The singer described her involvement in the World Cup project as a “full-circle moment,” recalling the unforgettable atmosphere when South Africa hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2010.
“I’m so excited to perform at the opening ceremonies. Let’s go Bafana Bafana,” she said.
Future also highlighted the magnitude of the occasion, describing the FIFA World Cup as a global platform unlike any other and expressing his excitement about performing the song live before millions of fans around the world.
The release of “Game Time” is part of a broader movement showcasing African talent on football’s biggest stage. Nigerian superstar Burna Boy recently teamed up with global pop icon Shakira on “Dai Dai,” while the song’s official music video features Uganda’s world-famous dance troupe, the Ghetto Kids.
With Tyla, Burna Boy, Rema and several other African artists contributing to the tournament’s official soundtrack, the continent’s influence is being felt far beyond the football pitch. Their music is helping define the energy, passion and cultural identity of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As South Africa prepares to face Mexico in the tournament opener, all eyes will first be on Tyla as she proudly carries the nation’s flag through music in front of a global audience expected to number in the hundreds of millions.
For South Africans, it promises to be a moment of pride, celebration and history as one of the country’s brightest stars shines under the lights of the FIFA World Cup.
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