A report says each opening ceremony will carry its own local flavour:
The approach is significant. Mexico, Canada and the United States are not being treated as interchangeable venues; each is being given a cultural front door. Elyanna has described Canada hosting the World Cup as a “historic moment”, a phrase that captures the broader ambition.
The report also outlines a tournament-wide musical identity. Shakira and Burna Boy are linked with *Dai Dai*, while Future and Tyla’s *Game Time* and LISA’s *Goals* are reportedly tied directly to the official soundtrack.
The boldest move is saved for the final. is expected to stage its first 11-minute halftime show at the tournament decider in New Jersey, with Shakira, Madonna and BTS involved. Chris Martin is reportedly set to curate the performance in support of the Global Citizen Education Fund. Madonna has called the opportunity “deeply meaningful”.
The entertainment push is expected to continue away from stadiums. Jameis Winston is reportedly being lined up as a roaming correspondent and co-host alongside Rob Gronkowski, while James Corden is expected to front a nightly highlights programme with Rio Ferdinand and Ian Karmel.
The next test will come when the ceremonies meet the competition itself. ’s challenge is to make the spectacle feel additive rather than distracting - ensuring that when the music fades, the football remains the main event.