Will Arnett joins celebrations as Canada prepares for historic World Cup opener
FIFA has unveiled an expanded list of performers and special guests for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ ceremonies in Canada, with Canadian music icons Alanis Morissette and Michael Bublé among the stars set to take centre stage in Toronto on Friday.
The announcement comes as Canada prepares to host its historic opening match of the expanded 48-team World Cup at Toronto Stadium, where football, music and culture will combine in a spectacular celebration ahead of kick-off.
According to FIFA, the pre-match ceremony will feature performances of the national anthems by globally acclaimed singer-songwriter Alanis Morissette, who will perform the Canadian national anthem, and Bosnian artist Aleksandar Gajić, who will deliver the national anthem of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Adding further star power to the occasion, actor and comedian Will Arnett, a FIFA World Cup 2026 Ambassador, will participate in the pre-match festivities, welcoming supporters from around the world and celebrating the spirit of unity that lies at the heart of football’s biggest tournament.
The ceremony forms part of FIFA’s wider programme of World Cup celebrations and is designed to showcase Canada’s cultural diversity, vibrant communities and passion for the global game.
Scheduled to begin 90 minutes before kick-off at Toronto Stadium, the opening ceremony will feature an impressive international line-up of artists whose music reflects the global nature of the competition.
Among those confirmed to perform are Canadian stars Alessia Cara, Jessie Reyez and Michael Bublé, alongside Palestinian-Chilean singer Elyanna, Moroccan-Canadian performer Nora Fatehi, Indian-American producer Sanjoy, French-Congolese artist Vegedream and Indigenous Canadian singer-songwriter William Prince.
FIFA said the performances would celebrate the multicultural character of both Canada and the World Cup, bringing together a range of musical styles and cultural influences before the action begins on the pitch.
Fans attending the match have been encouraged to arrive early to take part in the festivities. The opening ceremony is scheduled to start at 13:30 local time, while stadium gates will open four hours before kick-off.
Supporters will also have access to a variety of fan experiences, including exclusive activations, rewards and pre-match entertainment throughout the venue.
The Toronto celebration follows FIFA’s unveiling of a star-studded programme for the tournament’s opening ceremonies across the three host nations. Together with events in Mexico and the United States, the Canadian ceremony will help launch the largest FIFA World Cup in history.
With world-class football and an entertainment lineup featuring some of the biggest names in music and entertainment, Toronto is set to provide a memorable showcase as Canada welcomes the world to the FIFA World Cup 2026.
