Ayra Starr makes history with NFL London Halftime show
Afrobeats star Ayra Starr is set to make history when she headlines the halftime show at the 2026 NFL London Game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Jacksonville Jaguars.
The Nigerian singer, whose real name is Sarah Aderibigbe, will perform at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday, October 11, as part of the NFL’s 2026 International Games.
The NFL announced the performance on Thursday, with Ayra Starr also confirming the news through her official Instagram account.
Ayra Starr set for historic NFL Performance
The London appearance represents a major milestone for Ayra Starr and African music. She will become the first major African artist to headline an NFL game performance, bringing Afrobeats to one of the league’s international showcases.
Ayra Starr said she was excited about performing in London and described the opportunity to take her Starrgirl fanbase to the NFL’s global stage as a dream come true.
“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,” she said.
Eagles and Jaguars to meet in London
The halftime performance will take place during the NFL London Game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Jacksonville Jaguars. The game is scheduled for October 11 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with kick-off set for 2:30 p.m. British Summer Time.
The fixture forms part of the NFL’s 2026 International Games, which will feature events across seven countries and four continents.
NFL praises Ayra Starr's global appeal
Tim Tubito, the NFL’s Senior Director of Global Game Presentation, Music and Entertainment, said Ayra Starr was an ideal choice for the London event. Tubito highlighted London’s importance to the global music industry and the growing influence of African music in the city.
He described Ayra Starr as a major talent with a strong connection to the London audience and said the NFL was looking forward to working with her on a performance that reflects the energy of the occasion.
Ayra Starr’s NFL appearance further highlights the growing international reach of Afrobeats and African pop music. Previous performers at NFL London games have largely come from Britain and the United States, making the Nigerian singer’s headline appearance a notable moment for African representation on the NFL stage.
The performance will also give Ayra Starr an opportunity to showcase her music to an international audience during one of the NFL’s biggest overseas events of the year.
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