Nigerian Afrobeats star Ayra Starr is set to make history as the first major African artist to headline an NFL halftime show when she performs at the 2026 NFL London Game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Jacksonville Jaguars.
The National Football League announced on Thursday that the Nigerian singer will headline the halftime entertainment at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London on October 11.
Ayra Starr’s performance is expected to mark another major milestone for Afrobeats and highlight the growing global influence of African music.
The NFL London Game is part of the league’s 2026 International Games programme, which takes American football and its entertainment experience to audiences across different countries.
Ayra Starr, whose real name is Sarah Aderibigbe, has established herself as one of the leading figures of the new generation of Afrobeats artistes, gaining a growing following across Africa, Europe and North America.
Confirming the announcement, the singer expressed excitement about performing at an event of such global significance.
“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.
The NFL’s Senior Director of Global Game Presentation, Music and Entertainment, Tim Tubito, said Ayra Starr was selected in recognition of her growing influence and connection with London’s music scene.
“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 Ayra Starr as the “right artist to carry that momentum forward,” adding that the league was looking forward to creating a performance that would match the energy of the international fixture.
The NFL said Ayra Starr’s performance will be one of seven halftime shows presented by American Express during its 2026 International Games.
The programme will feature musical performances across seven countries and four continents, further expanding the NFL’s international entertainment footprint.
For Ayra Starr, the appearance represents another significant achievement in her rapidly growing international career and provides a major global platform for Afrobeats and Nigerian music.
