Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr made history on Sunday, October 11, 2026, becoming the first African artist to headline a National Football League (NFL) international game halftime show in London, taking Nigerian music to a global sporting audience.
The Grammy-nominated singer performed at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium during halftime of the NFL London Game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Jacksonville Jaguars, bringing Afrobeats to one of American football’s major international platforms.
Ayra Starr opened her set with “Heaven Baby” before performing songs including “Santa”, “Hot Body”, “Rush” and “Dangerous”. She performed on a temporary stage at midfield, showcasing her blend of Afrobeats, pop and R&B to fans attending the regular-season fixture.
The performance formed part of the NFL’s expanded international entertainment programme, which features seven halftime shows across its 2026 International Games, spanning seven countries and four continents.
The appearance also offered an international platform for music from her third studio album, Starrgirl, reportedly released in August 2026. Since her 2021 breakthrough, Ayra Starr has built a growing global audience, expanding her presence across international music markets.
Her NFL performance adds to the growing visibility of Afrobeats at major international sporting and entertainment events, as Nigerian artists continue to reach audiences beyond the continent.
For Ayra Starr, the London appearance marks another milestone in her international career, reinforcing her place among Nigerian artists helping to bring African music to the global stage.
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