Nigerian Ayrra Starr Makes History in London

Nigerian award-winning singer Ayra Starr, whose real name is Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, has been chosen to perform in a history-making event as the first Afrobeat star to perform in an NFL halftime show.

In an announcement on Thursday, 27th August 2026, the National Football League (NFL) described Ayrra Starr as the “first-ever Afrobeats artist to headline an NFL game.”

The Nigerian star will perform on 11th October 2026 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London in the game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Jacksonville Jaguars.

Ayrra Starr also confirmed the development, an opportunity that she stated is a “dream come true”

“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 stated.

In its statement, the NFL says the performance in London is one of the seven halftime shows presented by American Express across its 2026 International Games. Performances are expected across seven countries and four continents of the world.

The Senior Director, NFL Global Game Presentation, Music and Entertainment, Tim Tubito, described Ayrra Starr as a “generational talent” with a strong connection to London audiences.

“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,” the director said.

“Ayrra Starr is a generational talent with a real connection to fans in this market, and building on the halftime shows we have staged in London in recent seasons, she is the right artist to carry that momentum forward.” Tubito said.

SOURCE: MRA