Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr has etched her name in the history books, becoming the first African artiste ever to headline an NFL International Games halftime show.
The 24-year-old took the stage at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London on Sunday, 11 October 2026, during the NFL clash between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Jacksonville Jaguars, which drew a sell-out crowd of 61,322 fans.
How was Ayra Starr’s NFL performance?
Dressed in a purple corseted top and a black skirt, Ayra Starr delivered a high-energy medley that included some of her most loved tracks: Heaven Baby, Santa, Dangerous, Hot Body, Ms. Paper and Rush.
Several of the songs come from her third studio album, Starrgirl, which she released in August 2026.
Speaking after the performance, the singer was visibly moved by the experience.
“It was amazing. I feel like that was another person on the stage. I’m so grateful,” she said.
Ahead of the show, Ayra Starr had spoken to BBC Newsbeat about what the opportunity meant for the continent, saying the performance itself “is a message” for African music and culture.
Her headline slot was part of the NFL’s ambitious 2026 international programme, which featured seven halftime shows across seven countries and four continents.
Ayra Starr’s milestone adds to a growing list of African acts who have commanded some of the world’s biggest sporting stages in recent years.
In 2022, Davido performed at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Rema graced the Ballon d’Or ceremony in 2023, the same year Burna Boy headlined the UEFA Champions League final kick-off show.
Yemi Alade performed at the AFCON opening ceremony in 2024, and in 2025, Tems headlined the FIFA Club World Cup halftime show in the United States.
Netizens weigh in
Jesse Jackson Ojugo:
“Wait let be honest Nigeria has so many global music artist South Africa’s only 1 The rest of Africa non”
Promise Smith:
“She was amazing. Next up should be the super bowl half-time show”
Abraham Emmanuel:
“Omo her Steezzz was on a billion dollars levels.”
Yue Johanis:
“She represented Africa well”
Kenneth Mondrovia:
“It had to be Nigerian…. I love you”
Shelby Klaus:
“That song is banga, guys. Could you be my heaven baby”
Nompilo Ntshangase:
“I really wish we could see Europeans praising her performance, especially since she performed for them. This was absolutely amazing! She deserves all the recognition and appreciation for such a beautiful performance.”
