Katy Perry has been going through a lot over the last year, and while she might’ve made a massive career announcement, it doesn’t mean people are thrilled about it.
The pop star is facing backlash after it was announced that she would be performing for the upcoming World Cup opening ceremony. Though she’s not the only vocalist who will take the stage that night, her being named as the headliner is triggering some sports fans and social media users who feel the organization could’ve made a “better” choice. Read more about the controversial situation below.
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Katy Perry Is Announced As The 2026 World Cup Opening Ceremony Performer
It's no secret that the last year, especially the last few weeks, has been a whirlwind in terms of headlines involving the "California Girls" singer. From her Lifetimes tour to her space shuttle trip, as well as her new relationship with Justin Trudeau, and most recently, some intense assault allegations.
Now, it looks like, despite any messy rumors or further allegations, she's still making advances in her music career, including being invited to perform at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the infamous international soccer tournament. She is slated to headline the Opening Ceremony performance at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles this summer on June 12th, as the U.S. team gets ready to play against Paraguay.
On social media, the singer released the announcement alongside a graphic with her photo in it, writing, "Kicking my feet because I'm performing at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony in Los Angeles on June 12th! Stay tuned for more info - don't let this be #TheOneThatGotAway."
Social Media Users Express Disappointment In Katy's Performance & Threaten To Boycott The Game
Though there are some soccer fans and viewers who feel neutral about the mom-of-one being chosen as this year's opening act during the big event, there are a large number of people on social media clapping back at the decision.
In addition to the latest claims against the Grammy-winner, many people don't think she's the right kind of performer to take on the honor as the Opening Ceremony act.
"Well, I will skip her part and watch the rest!" commented a user on Instagram. "It's that simple."
"Not watching it now," added another.
"Was no one else available?" joked a user, as another wrote, "Picking someone so controversial eliminates half the viewing audience. Why bother having her?"
We'll be curious to see if the intensifying backlash has any effect on the upcoming performance, potentially encouraging the organization to change the lineup. Still, for now, it's certainly causing a stir in various comment sections.
