Star-Studded Spectacle: Celebrities Shine at 2026 World Cup USA Opening Match
The 2026 FIFA World Cup opener in Los Angeles featured a high-profile celebrity presence alongside the USA's triumphant 4-1 win over Paraguay, highlighted by performances from artists including Anitta and a star-studded audience.
- • The World Cup opening ceremony on December 12 took place at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
- • The USA defeated Paraguay 4-1 in the opening match following a star-filled ceremony.
- • Notable celebrities attending included Anitta, Katy Perry, Tom Cruise, Jamie Foxx, Paris Hilton, David Beckham, and Sofia Vergara.
- • Brazilian singer Anitta performed at the ceremony, adding to the event's entertainment value.
Key details
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off in the United States with a dazzling opening ceremony at Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium on December 12, accompanied by a thrilling 4-1 victory for the USA over Paraguay. The event was notable not only for the sport but also for the impressive lineup of celebrities who graced the stadium, merging entertainment with world-class soccer.
Brazilian singer Anitta was a standout performer in the opening ceremony, sharing the stage with renowned artists such as Katy Perry, LISA, Future, and Paris Hilton. This celebration of culture and sports was the third opening ceremony of the 2026 World Cup, following ceremonies in Mexico and Canada.
Hollywood’s elite presence was palpable, transforming the event into a vibrant red carpet affair. Among those attending were actors Tom Cruise, Jamie Foxx, and Owen Wilson; socialites like Paris Hilton; legendary athletes such as David Beckham and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar; and notable personalities including Sofia Vergara and Bill Gates. The celebrities mingled with fans and were seen signing autographs, adding a unique star-studded flair to the soccer spectacle.
As the USA enjoyed a strong start in the tournament, Brazilian coach Carlo Ancelotti conveyed optimism about Neymar’s condition ahead of Brazil’s tournament debut against Morocco on December 14, after the team’s preparatory friendlies and training sessions.
This convergence of entertainment and sports highlighted the World Cup's global appeal, attracting attention beyond just soccer fans and emphasizing the cultural significance of the event. The opening match set a vibrant tone for a tournament that promises to blend sports passion with international stardom.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
