Hollywood Stars Shine at 2026 World Cup Opening Ceremony in LA

The 2026 World Cup kicked off with a dazzling ceremony in Los Angeles, attended by Hollywood celebrities and featuring performances from global music stars.

The 2026 World Cup has begun with a bang in Los Angeles, where the United States team marked their first home World Cup since 1994 with a high-energy opening ceremony. The event was a star-studded affair, drawing Hollywood’s finest and global music icons to the Los Angeles Coliseum.

This summer’s tournament, the largest ever with 48 nations competing, promises to be a spectacle of sport and entertainment.

As the final co-host to play, the United States took the field after Mexico’s opening match on Thursday and Canada’s draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier on Friday.

The atmosphere was electric, with fans from all over the world gathering to celebrate the beautiful game.

Hollywood Glamour Takes Center Stage

The Los Angeles Coliseum was not just a venue for soccer; it was a stage for Hollywood glamour.

Sir David and Lady Victoria were spotted in the stands, alongside Mission Impossible star Tom Cruise, just hours after the former footballer received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Singer Katy Perry and her partner, former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeauwere also in attendance, adding to the star-studded crowd.

The celebrity sightings didn’t stop there. Halle Berryknown for her role in the 2002 film Die Another Daywas featured on the big screen. Rob Lowea beloved actor from the 1980s Brat Pack, and socialite Paris Hilton were also present, with Hilton seemingly taking a selfie during the match. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio watched the game with FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

Global Music Icons Light Up the Stage

The opening ceremony was a musical extravaganza, featuring performances from some of the world’s biggest stars. Southern California native Katy Perry took to the stage minutes before the players entered the pitch, following performances from East Coast rapper Future and other chart-toppers. The lineup also included Grammy-winning South African singer TylaBrazilian singer-songwriter Anittaand LISA from the K-pop group Blackpink.

Across the border, Canada’s opening ceremony in Toronto featured performances from Alanis Morissette and Michael Bublé. The match in Mexico City showcased Shakira and Nigerian artist Burna Boyadding to the global celebration of the sport.

Fans from Around the World Unite

Thousands of fans flocked to the Los Angeles Coliseum, including a group dressed as iconic American figures like Elvis Presley, George Washington, Uncle Sam, and Davy Crockett. Despite paying $1,900 each for their tickets, the fans were eager to experience the historic event. “We’re all here for the same reason. We love soccer,” said one fan dressed as Elvis. “Doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from. We’re here to have a good time and watch the most beautiful sport in the world.”

Fans traveled from far and wide to be part of the action. Joe Lucido and Migueli Lipari, dressed as Mario and Luigi, journeyed from Detroit to LA, covering over 2,200 miles (3,500km) to witness the atmosphere. “We spent too many coins on tickets,” they admitted, but the experience was worth every penny.

The excitement was palpable outside the venue as well. Tony Hacopian and his daughters, Zoe and Mila, stood in their hometown, hoping to find last-minute tickets. “There’s so much excitement,” said 10-year-old Mila. Her dad added, “Go outside. Wear your jersey. Enjoy! This is the best time, connecting everyone from different parts of the world.”

The opening ceremony also featured a mini-flag parade led by Ted Lasso star Jason Sudeikisadding to the festive atmosphere. As the world comes together to celebrate the beautiful game, the 2026 World Cup is set to be a tournament of historic proportions.