Canadian rocker Bryan Adams headlined a star-studded countdown concert at Toronto's Fort York National Historic Site and The Bentway on Wednesday night, June 10, 2026, launching the official festivities for the FIFA World Cup.
The 90-minute televised event synchronized live performances across Toronto, Los Angeles, and Mexico City to unite fans in the tournament's host nations.
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The Toronto segment featured performances by Adams, Nora Fatehi, DJ Sanjoy, and Vegedream, with additional sets scheduled for The Beaches, Wyclef Jean, and Ontario roots artist AHI.
"Let the games begin!" yelled Adams after his two-song set.
Toronto host Marissa Roberto highlighted the visual montage of local landmarks like the CN Tower, the aquarium, and Kensington Market shown during the broadcast.
"Oh, look at that iconic Toronto skyline!" added Roberto.
Roberto further described the energetic environment at the historic site as Canada prepares to host its first-ever matches in the men's tournament.
"We're here in Toronto where the atmosphere is unreal right now," said Roberto.
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The broadcaster emphasized the historical importance of the evening for the host nation.
"Can you feel it?
This is a historic night for Canada as we're hosting our first ever men's FIFA World Cup matches," said Roberto.
Simultaneous international broadcasts featured operatic singer Andrea Bocelli alongside Los Ángeles Azules and Belinda in Mexico City, while Davido, Major Lazer, Ava Max, and BIA performed from the Los Angeles venue.
The global event heralded the opening match of the tournament between Mexico and South Africa on Thursday at 3 p.
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m. in Mexico City, followed by Canada's opening match against Bosnia and Herzegovina at BMO Field on Friday.
