Nigerian Afrobeats singer Ayra Starr is set to take African music to a new stage as she headlines the halftime show at the 2026 NFL London Game.
The singer, whose real name is Sarah Aderibigbe, will perform when the Philadelphia Eagles face the Jacksonville Jaguars at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London on October 11.
The National Football League announced her participation on Thursday, with Ayra Starr subsequently confirming the news on Instagram.
Her appearance will make her the first major African artist to headline an NFL halftime performance, marking a significant achievement for both the singer and the continent’s growing influence on the global music scene.
The London game is part of the NFL’s 2026 International Games, which will feature seven halftime performances across seven countries and four continents.
Speaking about the opportunity, Ayra Starr said she was particularly excited to perform in London, a city she has frequently visited and described as one of her favourites.
“I am so excited to perform at the NFL halftime show in London.
“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. I can’t wait to see you guys there!” she said.
Tim Tubito, the NFL’s Senior Director of Global Game Presentation, Music and Entertainment, said Ayra Starr’s selection reflected the strong relationship between London and African music.
“London is one of the most influential music cities in the world, and African music has been at the centre of that conversation for years now,” Tubito said.
He described the singer as “the right artist to carry that momentum forward” and said the league was looking forward to working with her to create a performance that would capture the excitement surrounding the game.
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Ayra Starr’s NFL appearance adds to a series of international achievements that have strengthened her profile as one of Nigeria’s leading young Afrobeats stars.
The singer has continued to expand her global audience through her music and international performances, while African artists have increasingly secured major platforms outside the continent.
The 2026 NFL London Game will kick off at 2:30 p.m. British Summer Time on October 11, with the Eagles taking on the Jaguars.