World Cup kicks off in the US with performances from Katy Perry, Future and Tyla

June 13, 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off across North America with elaborate opening ceremonies in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the tournament's expansion to 48 competing nations. Los Angeles hosted the American ceremony featuring performances by Katy Perry, Future, and other international stars before the USA faced Paraguay, while Toronto's event showcased Canadian artists including Alanis Morissette and Michael Bublé ahead of Canada's historic tie with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Fans traveled thousands of miles and spent considerable sums on tickets, with some paying nearly $2,000 per seat, though high costs also led many to watch from free fan zones instead.

Who is affected

Soccer fans from the USA, Canada, Mexico, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Paraguay, and other competing nations
Ticket purchasers who paid between approximately $1,900 and higher amounts per seat
Fans unable to afford game tickets who attended free fan zones in Toronto
48 national teams competing in the tournament
Residents of host cities experiencing heavier-than-normal traffic
Performers including Katy Perry, Future, Tyla, Anitta, LISA, Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé, Shakira, and Burna Boy
Celebrity attendees such as Owen Wilson, Paris Hilton, Sofia Vergara, and Jason Sudeikis
Political figures including US President Donald Trump, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio

What action is being taken

The 2026 World Cup tournament is currently being hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico
Opening ceremonies are being held in Los Angeles, Toronto, and Mexico City with various performers
Teams are playing matches (USA vs Paraguay, Canada vs Bosnia and Herzegovina)
Thousands of fans are traveling to attend games and gathering at stadiums and fan zones
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is representing the White House at the LA game
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is in France for a working trip ahead of the G7 summit and is expected to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron

Why it matters

This is the largest World Cup ever held with 48 nations competing, representing a significant expansion of the tournament. It marks the first World Cup on American soil since 1994 and is the first to be jointly hosted by three countries. For Canada, this represents a historic milestone as the team earned its first-ever World Cup point. The tournament brings together diverse communities and fans from around the world, demonstrating soccer's global appeal and cultural significance. However, the event also highlights issues of accessibility, as high ticket prices have prevented many fans from attending in person and even prompted a presidential boycott, raising questions about whether major sporting events are pricing out ordinary supporters.

What's next

FIFA is planning a closing ceremony on July 19 with a first-ever halftime show featuring headliners Chris Martin from Coldplay, Madonna, and Shakira
The final game will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday
Next week's G7 summit will take place

Read full article from source: BBC