Country Duo Dan + Shay Chosen to Belt the U.S. Anthem at the 2026 World Cup Opening Ceremony

When the talk turns to the 2026 FIFA World Cup – the first time the tournament will be staged across three countries – the conversation doesn’t just stay on the pitch. In a surprising yet fitting twist, the organizers have invited Nashville’s own Dan + Shay to sing the U.S. national anthem at the opening ceremony. The country‑pop duo, known for hits like “Tequila” and “10,000 Hours,” will stand in front of a sea of flags and cameras, delivering a rendition that’s sure to blend patriotism with a touch of Southern charm.

Fans of the pair will recognize the excitement they bring to every stage. From Grammy‑night performances to surprise appearances at the Super Bowl halftime, Dan + Shay have proved they can handle high‑pressure, high‑visibility gigs without missing a beat. This time, however, the backdrop is a little different: instead of a stadium filled with football fans, it’s a global soccer celebration, with millions tuning in from every corner of the planet.

Speaking to the press, the duo said they felt “honored and humbled” to be part of such a historic moment. “We’ve always loved the energy of big sporting events,” singer Dan Smyers remarked, “and to sing the anthem for a World Cup that’s bringing together the United States, Canada, and Mexico – it feels like a true North‑American celebration.” His partner, Shay Mooney, added a cheeky grin, noting that they’d been practicing their “big‑venue vocals” while driving cross‑country in a pickup, a detail that made fans chuckle.

The decision to feature a country act also reflects the growing crossover between American music genres and the global soccer audience. While the sport has traditionally leaned on pop, rock, or Latin beats for its ceremonies, this year’s organizers wanted something that resonates with the host nation’s cultural roots. “Country music is part of the American story,” a FIFA spokesperson explained, “and Dan + Shay bring that authenticity while still appealing to an international crowd.”

Of course, the anthem isn’t the only highlight slated for the opening night. A dazzling fireworks display, a tribute to past World Cup moments, and a performance by an internationally renowned artist are all on the agenda. Yet many pundits agree that the anthem will set the tone, anchoring the event in a shared sense of pride and unity.

As the countdown ticks toward June 2026, excitement builds not just for the games themselves but for the spectacle surrounding them. Whether you’re a soccer aficionado, a country‑music fan, or just someone who loves a good live performance, Dan + Shay’s upcoming rendition promises to be a memorable kickoff to what could be the most watched opening ceremony in sports history.