Ayra Star sets to make history as first African artist to headline NFL halftime show

Nigerian Afrobeats star Ayra Starr is poised to break new ground as the first major African artist to headline an NFL halftime performance. She will take the stage during the league’s 2026 London Game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Jacksonville Jaguars on October 11 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.The National Football League confirmed the booking on Thursday, with Starr sharing her excitement on Instagram. “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 wrote. The performance forms part of seven American Express-sponsored halftime shows planned for the NFL’s 2026 International Games, spanning seven countries and four continents. Tim Tubito, the league’s Senior Director of Global Game Presentation, Music and Entertainment, praised the choice. “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,”he said, adding that Starr is“the right artist to carry that momentum forward.” Previous London halftime acts have mostly featured British and American performers.