South African music star Tyla is set to add another remarkable achievement to her growing list of international accomplishments after being selected to perform at the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The Grammy-winning artist will perform the South African national anthem ahead of Bafana Bafana’s opening match against Mexico in Mexico City on 11 June, placing her at the centre of one of the most anticipated moments of the tournament’s opening day.
The performance represents a significant moment not only for Tyla but also for South Africa, as millions of football fans around the world will watch one of the country’s most successful musical exports take the stage before the first match of the tournament.
Tyla has enjoyed a meteoric rise to international fame over the past few years. Her global hit Water introduced her to audiences around the world and established her as one of Africa’s most influential young artists. Since then, she has continued to expand her international presence through major award wins, high-profile performances and collaborations with some of the biggest names in music.
Her involvement in the World Cup extends beyond the national anthem. Tyla is also featured on the official FIFA World Cup 2026 soundtrack through the song Game Time, a collaboration with American rapper Future. The track is expected to play a key role in the tournament’s entertainment programme.
Speaking about the opportunity, Tyla described participating in the FIFA World Cup as a special full-circle moment. For many South Africans, her involvement evokes memories of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, when the country hosted football’s biggest event and showcased its culture to a global audience.
The announcement has been widely welcomed by fans, who see Tyla’s selection as recognition of both her success and the growing influence of African music on the global stage.
As Bafana Bafana prepare to begin their World Cup journey, South Africans will have another reason to celebrate before kick-off, with one of the country’s brightest stars representing the nation in front of a worldwide audience.
