Nigerian music star Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ogulu, has been selected to headline the halftime show at the National Football League's first regular-season game in France. The event will take place at the Stade de France on October 25, where the New Orleans Saints will face the Pittsburgh Steelers. This historic match is part of the NFL's growing international schedule, with the league staging games in three new host cities: Paris, Melbourne, and Rio de Janeiro.
The NFL has a total of nine international fixtures scheduled for 2026, as part of its efforts to expand its global fan base. Burna Boy's performance marks a return to a familiar stage, having become the first African artist to sell out a solo concert at the 80,000-capacity Stade de France in April 2025. The Afrobeats star described his return as a major milestone, expressing his excitement to perform in Paris once again.
According to Tim Tubito, the NFL's senior director of global game presentation, music, and entertainment, Burna Boy was selected due to his star power and strong ties to Paris. Tubito noted that the historic fixture required a halftime show that matched the scale of the event, and that no artist was better suited for the moment than Burna Boy. The singer won a Grammy Award in 2021 for Best Global Music Album with Twice As Tall.
Burna Boy's upcoming performance will place African music at the heart of the NFL's French debut. The musician stated that he intends to give the people a show they will not forget, representing African music on a global stage. The NFL's decision to feature Burna Boy is seen as a significant move to showcase African talent to a broader audience.
The Stade de France, where the NFL game will take place, has previously hosted several high-profile events, including football matches and concerts. Burna Boy's performance will add to the stadium's rich history, further solidifying its reputation as a premier venue for international events. The NFL's foray into international games is part of its strategy to grow its fan base and increase its global presence.
The NFL's international schedule for 2026 includes games in three new host cities: Paris, Melbourne, and Rio de Janeiro. This expansion marks a significant milestone for the league, as it seeks to tap into new markets and attract new fans. The inclusion of African music, represented by Burna Boy, is expected to enhance the league's appeal to a diverse audience.
Burna Boy's performance at the NFL halftime show is set to take place on October 25, and fans are eagerly anticipating the event. With his high-energy stage presence and hit songs, the musician is expected to deliver an unforgettable show that will leave a lasting impression on the audience. The event will be a significant moment for African music, as Burna Boy takes center stage on a global platform.
Key points
- Burna Boy will headline the NFL's first regular-season game in France on October 25.
- The NFL has nine international fixtures scheduled for 2026, including games in Paris, Melbourne, and Rio de Janeiro.
- Burna Boy's performance will mark a return to the Stade de France, where he previously sold out a solo concert in April 2025.
