The world is gearing up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the excitement is building; not only for the sport but also for the cultural spectacle that accompanies it. Among the prominent figures expected to represent Canada is none other than Toronto's own, Drake. With a career that has redefined music and a fanbase that spans the globe, the rapper's involvement could elevate the World Cup experience significantly.
This past year, when FIFA unveiled the host cities for the tournament, Drake took center stage alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino. His presence underscored Canada's pivotal role in the tournament, as Toronto will kick off the event on June 12, 2026. Anticipation for the games aside, the prospect of seeing Drake perform during the halftime show has many fans buzzing with excitement.
Recently, Infantino appeared on FOX 5's Good Day New York, where co-host Rosanna Scotto posed a question that's on the minds of many: "Will Drake perform at the World Cup?” Infantino, embracing the idea with a playful spirit, suggested that the rapper's longstanding rivalry with Kendrick Lamar could add an intriguing layer to the halftime show. This hints at the thrilling dynamics a Drake performance could introduce.
The World Cup halftime show is now poised to be one of the most-watched musical events in history. Infantino boasted that the show could garner an audience of over two billion viewers from across the globe, dwarfing even the Super Bowl's impressive viewership. This highlights the World Cup's stature as both a sporting event and a cultural phenomenon capable of bridging divides through music and celebration.
The idea of a halftime show at the World Cup final marks a shift towards increased commercialization in sports. Infantino announced on social media that the 2026 final would feature this unprecedented spectacle, something that current and previous World Cup fans have yet to experience at this scale. As the lines between sports and entertainment continue to blur, events like this demonstrate how FIFA is adapting to modern viewing preferences.
Drake, who has often incorporated sports and cultural references into his music, expressed his pride in being part of such a historic event. In a previous interview with Infantino, he emphasized Toronto’s rich cultural tapestry. “Canada as a whole is an incredible melting pot. But in Toronto, there are just so many different cultural experiences,” he explained. This sentiment is particularly relevant as the world descends upon North America for the tournament, with hopes of showcasing the diverse cultural experiences that define the region.
Beyond Toronto, Vancouver will also host matches as part of Canada’s contribution to the World Cup. Meanwhile, the United States will lead the way in hosting, with iconic locations like Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, Seattle, and more preparing to open their doors to soccer fans from around the world. The anticipation of the matches, coupled with the potential for a high-profile halftime performance, creates a thrilling atmosphere for the tournament.
While infusing the halftime show with a blend of diverse musical styles, 2026 World Cup aims to cater to a wide-ranging audience. The inclusion of artists like Drake, familiar with both North American culture and global appeal, aligns flawlessly with FIFA's vision for the event. Interestingly, Infantino noted that Coldplay’s Chris Martin would be producing the halftime show, setting the stage for a collaborative performance that blends genres and cultures. FIFA World Cup 2026; Match schedules, fixtures and stadium
Fans can expect more announcements and collaborations that will further ignite the excitement for the tournament. With Drake potentially headlining one of the most-watched moments in sports history, it’s a thrilling time to be a fan of music and soccer alike. As the date approaches, one question remains on the lips of fans worldwide: Will Drake take the stage during halftime? Regardless of the answer, the potential for the event to be a cultural milestone is already undeniable. The world is watching, and the time is ripe for something spectacular.
