LOS ANGELES – The FIFA World Cup 2026 officially arrived in the United States with a dazzling Hollywood-style opening ceremony at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, transforming the venue into a global showcase of music, entertainment, celebrity culture and football.

Before the United States defeated Paraguay 4-1 in a historic opening match, more than 70,000 fans witnessed a star-studded celebration that reflected Los Angeles' status as the entertainment capital of the world.

Global music icons Katy Perry, Future, Anitta, LISA of BLACKPINK, Rema and Tyla headlined the ceremony, delivering high-energy performances that blended pop, hip-hop, Afrobeats and Latin rhythms. The show featured elaborate visual effects, giant video screens, marching bands and artistic elements inspired by Los Angeles street art and the city's creative spirit.

One of the most anticipated moments came when Katy Perry took center stage, while LISA, Anitta and Rema energized the crowd with performances connected to FIFA's official World Cup soundtrack. Tyla and Future also joined the celebration, creating a multicultural spectacle that highlighted the diversity of the United States and the global nature of the tournament.

The glamour extended far beyond the stage. Hollywood legends and international celebrities filled the VIP sections of SoFi Stadium, turning the event into one of the most exclusive gatherings of the year.

Among those spotted in attendance were Tom Cruise, David Beckham, Victoria Beckham, Leonardo DiCaprio, Halle Berry, George Lucas, Owen Wilson, Rob Lowe, Paris Hilton, Sofia Vergara, Justin Trudeau, Bill Gates, Candace Parker and NBA star Draymond Green. Former U.S. soccer star Alex Morgan was also present as fans celebrated the beginning of the biggest World Cup in history.

A giant World Cup trophy replica displayed on the field became one of the most photographed attractions of the night, while FIFA's opening production emphasized the message of unity, diversity and global connection through football.

For FIFA, the Los Angeles ceremony represented more than the start of a tournament. It showcased the United States' ability to combine sports and entertainment on a scale few countries can match. The celebration set the tone for a month-long festival of football across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

With a packed stadium, world-famous performers, Hollywood royalty and a dominant victory by the host nation, the opening night in Los Angeles delivered exactly what FIFA envisioned: a World Cup launch worthy of the world's biggest sporting event.