Paris Hilton attended the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on June 12, 2026 [1].
As a celebrity guest at the event, Hilton's presence highlights the tournament's strategy to blend global sports with high-profile entertainment to maximize viewership and cultural reach.
During an on-stage interview at the venue, Hilton discussed the role of football in fostering international connections. "It's magical the way the sport brings people together across the globe," Hilton said [2]. The appearance took place during the opening of the 23rd FIFA World Cup [3].
Hilton also used her platform to acknowledge other entertainers. "Shoutout to my girl Britney Spears, Kesha, and Demi Lovato – you’re my dream squad!" Hilton said [4].
While discussing her personal aspirations, Hilton mentioned the atmosphere of the event. "I’m dreaming of being a soccer mom someday – the energy here is amazing!" Hilton said [4].
Her appearance at the Los Angeles stadium was part of a wider effort to promote the tournament through celebrity engagement [5]. The event featured a red carpet and various performances to mark the start of the competition [3].
“"It's magical the way the sport brings people together across the globe."”
The inclusion of global celebrities like Paris Hilton at the opening ceremony underscores FIFA's objective to broaden the World Cup's appeal beyond traditional sports fans. By integrating pop culture figures into the event's programming, the organization seeks to increase the tournament's visibility across social media and entertainment demographics, particularly within the U.S. market.
