London, United Kingdom — Nigerian-Beninese singer Ayra Starr has become the first African artist to headline a halftime show at an NFL International Game, performing at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London on Sunday, October 11.
The 24-year-old Afrobeats star took the stage during halftime of the Philadelphia Eagles’ game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, delivering a performance featuring some of her most popular songs.
Her setlist included Heaven Baby, Rush, Hot Body, Santa, and Dangerous, bringing Afrobeats to thousands of American football fans in the British capital.
Ayra Starr performs at NFL London Game halftime show
The NFL announced Starr as the headline performer in August, recognizing her as part of a new generation of African musicians gaining international prominence.
According to the league, the singer has accumulated more than seven billion streams worldwide and surpassed one billion YouTube views since launching her music career in 2021.
Her performance at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium marked another major appearance outside Africa and introduced her music to audiences following the NFL’s international competition.
Grammy-nominated singer expands global reach
Starr has built an international career with a string of popular releases and performances at major music events.
The singer has received two Grammy nominations and won the Best International Act award at the BET Awards.
She has also performed at the Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom, further establishing her presence on international stages.
Her NFL halftime appearance adds to a growing list of performances that have taken her music beyond traditional Afrobeats audiences.
Afrobeats takes center stage at NFL International Games
The NFL is staging a record seven halftime shows during its 2026 International Games, with events taking place across seven countries and four continents.
The entertainment program forms part of the league’s efforts to connect with audiences outside the United States through international sporting events and live music.
Starr’s London performance placed African music at the center of one of those events, reflecting the increasing visibility of Afrobeats in global entertainment.
