Who Sang the Us Anthem at the World Cup? the Story Behind Dan + Shay’s Selection
By Maya Lin-Takahashi
Landing the opening match anthem for the 2026 World Cup carries far more commercial consequence than an ordinary television appearance. Major tournament games command global live viewership metrics that dwarf annual domestic championships like the Super Bowl or the World Series.
For Dan + Shay, the gig arrived at a mature point in their joint trajectory. Having survived near-burnout and public conversations about disbanding prior to their 2023 studio album Bigger Houses, their collective presence on an international pitch reinforced their status as elite live craftsmen. It also proved that modern country acts can command global cultural real estate without altering their sonic identity.
The booking demonstrated that soccer tournament organizers are willing to move past standard electronic dance music tracks and mainstream pop stars. By selecting an act known purely for vocal balance, tournament leaders traded manufactured hype for reliable, error-free execution.
Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.
