Nigerian Afrobeats star Ayra Starr is set to take her music to another major international stage as she prepares to headline the halftime show at the 2026 NFL International Game in London.
The Grammy-nominated singer will perform on October 11 when the Philadelphia Eagles face the Jacksonville Jaguars at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, becoming the first Afrobeats artist to headline an NFL game.
NET reports that the performance forms part of the NFL’s 2026 International Games, which will take the league and its entertainment programming across seven countries and four continents.
For Ayra Starr, the announcement arrives during an exciting period in her career, following the release of her third studio album, Starr Girl. The project opened another chapter in her musical journey as she continues to build an audience across Africa and international markets.
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The singer described the opportunity to perform in London as a dream come true, reflecting on her connection with the city and her excitement about bringing her music to the NFL’s global audience.
“I am so excited to perform at the NFL halftime show in London,” Ayra Starr said. “London is one of my favourite places in the world and to bring Starrgirl to the NFL global stage is a dream come true for me.”
Her selection also places African music within a major global sporting event at a time when Afrobeats continues to reach new audiences through international tours, festivals, collaborations and entertainment platforms.
NFL Senior Director of Global Game Presentation, Music and Entertainment Tim Tubito described Ayra Starr as a “generational talent,” pointing to her connection with London audiences and the influence African music has established within the city.
Ayra Starr has built an international career from the success of records including “Rush” and “Commas,” while her albums and collaborations have strengthened her position among the Nigerian artists introducing contemporary African music to audiences around the world.
The London performance now adds another significant achievement to that journey, bringing together music and sport on a stage capable of introducing her artistry to an even wider audience.
When the Eagles and Jaguars meet at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on October 11, the occasion will therefore carry another moment of significance beyond the game itself. Ayra Starr’s halftime appearance will give Afrobeats another place on the international entertainment calendar and mark a new milestone for the Nigerian star as her global journey continues.
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Image Credit: Music Industry Weekly
