Drake, the Toronto-born rap superstar, could be making an appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup—not just as a spectator, but as a performer. The possibility of Drake headlining the event gained traction after FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed the idea during a recent interview.
Infantino Reacts to Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar Feud
Appearing on FOX 5’s Good Day New York on March 6, Infantino was asked about the idea of Drake performing at the World Cup by co-host Rosanna Scotto.
“I have a great idea for you for the halftime—Drake,” she suggested. “Because you were at the Super Bowl—Kendrick Lamar dissed him at the Super Bowl.”
Infantino, responding with a lighthearted comment, acknowledged the ongoing rivalry between Drake and Kendrick Lamar.
“So we can create a bit of a rivalry,” he joked. “That’s a good idea. Actually, Drake was with us when we announced the host cities. I should have his number saved somewhere.”
World Cup Halftime Show: "Best Ever," Says Infantino
While the World Cup doesn’t traditionally feature a Super Bowl-style halftime show, Infantino hinted at grand plans for 2026. He confirmed that Coldplay’s Chris Martin is producing the event and promised an unforgettable spectacle.
“We’re thinking big,” he said. “We’ll have 2 billion viewers from every corner of the world. It’s like 20 times the Super Bowl. So, we are very excited about that. You have to watch it—that’s the surprise. … It will be global, different languages, different countries.”
Toronto Set to Host Opening Match of 2026 World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place across North America, with Canada, the United States, and Mexico serving as joint hosts. Toronto will stage the tournament’s opening match on June 12, 2026, while Vancouver will also host games in Canada.
Drake, an outspoken supporter of Toronto’s global influence, previously shared his excitement about the event.
“Canada as a whole, we have an incredible melting pot. But in Toronto, there are just so many different cultural experiences,” Drake said during an interaction with Infantino in February 2024. “So when the world comes, it’s going to be beautiful.”
Host Cities Across North America
In addition to Toronto and Vancouver, eleven U.S. cities will host World Cup matches:
- Los Angeles
- Miami
- Atlanta
- Seattle
- Houston
- Philadelphia
- Kansas City
- Boston
- Dallas
- San Francisco (Bay Area)
- Greater New York City area
With anticipation building for the 2026 World Cup, the possibility of Drake performing at the tournament’s halftime show adds another layer of excitement. Whether Infantino follows through on the idea remains to be seen, but with billions of viewers expected, FIFA is certainly aiming for a historic event.