South African music sensation Tyla is set to play a starring role in the opening moments of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the x2 Grammy Award-winning artist selected to perform South Africa’s national anthem ahead of Bafana Bafana’s highly anticipated clash against Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca.
As football fans from across the globe zero in on Mexico City for the opening match of the tournament, Tyla will join a star-studded line-up of performers and special guests featured in the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening and pre-match festivities.
Representing the host nation, acclaimed Mexican singer Alejandro Fernández will perform Mexico’s national anthem. In contrast, Tyla will proudly represent South Africa in what promises to be a powerful and emotional moment before the tournament officially gets underway.
Adding further star power to the occasion, actress and FIFA World Cup ambassador Salma Hayek Pinault will address supporters during the pre-match ceremony, welcoming fans to Mexico City and celebrating football’s ability to unite people from every corner of the world.
Music will remain at the heart of the spectacle, with Colombian stars J Balvin and Ryan Castro also set to take the stage together following their recent collaborations.
The festivities form part of a wider celebration of football, music and culture designed to launch the biggest FIFA World Cup in history. Scheduled to begin 90 minutes before kick-off, the opening ceremony at Mexico City Stadium will showcase artists featured on the Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Album, bringing together some of the biggest names in global music.
Fans can also look forward to performances from a diverse roster of international stars, including Belinda, Burna Boy, Danny Ocean, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, Maná and Shakira.
The Mexico City event will serve as the first of three opening celebrations planned across the tournament, setting the tone for a month-long football festival that promises unforgettable moments both on and off the pitch.
For South African fans, however, all eyes will be on Tyla and Bafana Bafana as two major Mzansi exports take centre stage at football’s grandest spectacle.
At just 24, Tyla has rapidly become one of South Africa’s biggest global exports. From chart-topping hits like Water to winning a Grammy, her inclusion in the World Cup ceremony cements her place on the international stage.
She is also featured in the World Cup’s musical rollout, including collaborations tied to the tournament, further strengthening her involvement in the global sporting event.
With billions expected to watch the opening match, Tyla’s performance of the national anthem will be seen by a massive international audience, making it one of the biggest moments of her career.
For many South Africans, it’s a proud moment to see a homegrown artist represent the country on such a prestigious platform.
