Ayra Starr Makes History With NFL International Games Halftime Show Appearance

Nigerian singer Ayra Starr has made history as the first African artist to headline a halftime show at an NFL International Game.

The Afrobeats star performed on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London during the break in the National Football League (NFL) clash between the Philadelphia Eagles and Jacksonville Jaguars.

Ayra Starr entertained spectators with performances of her hit songs, Rush and Heaven Baby, on a temporary stage set up at the centre of the pitch.

Her appearance brought Afrobeats to the global sporting platform, highlighting the growing international influence of African music and Nigerian entertainers.

The performance marked another significant achievement in the singer’s career, further strengthening her reputation as one of the African artistes attracting audiences beyond the continent.

The NFL has continued to expand its international presence by staging regular-season games outside the United States, creating opportunities to connect American football with new audiences around the world.

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Ayra Starr’s halftime performance formed part of this broader international reach, combining music and sport before spectators at the London venue.

Her achievement also underscored the increasing visibility of Afrobeats at major global events, where African musicians continue to gain recognition across different entertainment platforms.

The singer’s appearance at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium represents a notable moment for Nigerian music, placing an African female artiste at the centre of a major international sporting spectacle.

With her growing global profile, Ayra Starr continues to contribute to the worldwide recognition of Afrobeats and the broader African entertainment industry.