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From the iconic beats of “In Da Club” to the center of the soccer pitch, the anticipation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up. On Monday (May 11), Sports Illustrated officially unveiled its “SI Beyond the Pitch” series, a nationwide lineup of exclusive fan experiences designed to celebrate the upcoming tournament.
In collaboration with Medium Rare and Authentic Live, SI is pulling out all the stops. Major hosting cities—including Miami, New York City, Los Angeles, and Dallas—will play host to high-energy performances from a stellar roster of talent, featuring 50 Cent, Diplo, The Chainsmokers, Nelly, and Gordo.
The festivities kick off on June 12 at the Hollywood Palladium with Nelly setting the tone. Later that month, The Chainsmokers will command the stage at DAER in Miami on June 26. As the tournament reaches its fever pitch, Gordo is set to headline a DJ set at SILO in Dallas, while 50 Cent and Diplo will cap things off with performances at Cipriani Wall Street in NYC during championship weekend on July 18.
“SI has solidified its reputation as the premier destination for major sports weekends,” stated Matt Goldstein, EVP of Authentic Live. “Whether it’s spotlighting current icons or the next generation of superstars, our guest list reflects the intersection of sports and culture that we strive to build around every single time.”
“This isn’t just a tournament; it’s a generational sporting milestone on American soil,” added Joe Silberzweig, founder and CEO of Medium Rare. “The sheer demand we’re witnessing is unprecedented. We are channeling that energy into crafting the most electrifying nightlife experiences the global soccer community has ever encountered, creating cultural epicenters in every host city that mirror the intensity unfolding on the field.”
The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially launches on June 11 in Mexico City with a match between Mexico and South Africa. Team USA will embark on their own campaign the following day, June 12, facing off against Paraguay in Los Angeles.
On the musical front, the tournament’s soundtrack is already generating buzz. On Thursday (May 7), Shakira teased a vibrant fusion of reggaetón and Afrobeats for her upcoming collaboration with Nigerian standout Burna Boy. Titled “Dai Dai,” the track is slated for release on May 14 and will serve as an official anthem for the 2026 games.
Courtesy of Medium Rare
