Grammy-winning South African sensation Tyla will perform the national anthem, Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika, at the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony in Mexico City on Thursday, 11 June.
FIFA confirmed Tyla as part of the opening ceremony lineup for the tournament, which will be co-hosted by Mexico, the USA, and Canada. Her performance of South Africa’s anthem is expected to open the global event before the first match kicks off.
The 23-year-old singer won a Grammy Award in 2024 and has become one of SA’s biggest international music exports. Her appearance puts a spotlight on South African culture at a World Cup where Bafana Bafana are also set to compete.
Fans have already taken to social media with the hashtags #Tyla #FIFAWorldCup #BafanaBafana, celebrating the announcement ahead of 11 June.
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