The NFL’s 2025 season will kick off with a distinctly Latin flair. Global superstar Karol G has been confirmed as the headliner for the league’s halftime show in São Paulo, Brazil, during the Week One clash between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Los Angeles Chargers. The game, set for September 5 at Corinthians Arena, will not only open the NFL’s international schedule but also mark a significant moment for Latin music representation in one of the world’s most-watched sports events.

The Colombian singer, currently riding the wave of success from her latest album Tropicoqueta, said the invitation felt like the perfect culmination to a landmark year in her career. “This year has been truly rewarding, and the timing of this opportunity is perfect,” she told the Associated Press. “With , I set out to represent the many facets of my Latin culture, something I’m incredibly passionate about in everything I do. I’m excited to bring that same energy and pride to this global stage and honored to continue elevating Latin culture on such a monumental platform.”

The halftime performance will form part of the NFL’s first-ever live broadcast on YouTube, expanding the league’s digital reach while spotlighting Latin America’s cultural influence. Coverage will begin with a pre-game show at 7 p.m. ET, leading into an 8 p.m. ET kickoff. For fans in Brazil, the event represents both a major sporting occasion and a high-profile showcase for Latin and Brazilian talent.

Tim Tubito, Senior Director of Global Game Presentation and Entertainment at the NFL, emphasized the significance of the São Paulo event. “We’re thrilled to welcome Karol G and a fantastic lineup of local talent to the 2025 São Paulo game, honoring the sounds of Latin America, and delivering those tuning in globally a historic performance on YouTube,” Tubito said. The program will also feature Brazilian country music star Ana Castela, who will perform the Hino Nacional Brasileiro, the country’s national anthem, ahead of kickoff.

For Karol G, the halftime slot is more than a career milestone; it’s also a chance to contribute to the ongoing global rise of Latin music. Over the past decade, genres like reggaeton, Latin pop, and regional Mexican music have broken into mainstream charts worldwide, with artists from Bad Bunny to Rosalía making major festival and television appearances. Karol herself has been at the forefront of this movement, amassing billions of streams, headlining international tours, and becoming one of the most visible Latin artists in the world.

The NFL’s decision to spotlight her in its Brazil game reflects a growing recognition of the region’s fan base and cultural influence. Brazil is one of the fastest-growing markets for American football, with the league investing in grassroots programs, fan events, and partnerships to expand its footprint. Tying the sport’s debut YouTube live broadcast to a performance from one of Latin music’s biggest names adds a layer of cultural resonance to the event.

Speaking about the upcoming show, Karol G reflected on her own history watching past Super Bowl and international NFL halftime spectacles. “I’ve watched many NFL halftime shows over the years, and now having this opportunity to bring my music to this global stage means the world to me,” she said. “I can’t wait to celebrate with everyone in São Paulo and fans all around the world.”

With Tropicoqueta’s themes of cultural pride and diversity, Karol G’s halftime set is expected to weave in the rhythms, visuals, and storytelling that have defined her career. While the NFL has yet to reveal the full production details, anticipation is high that her performance will blend Colombian and Brazilian influences while maintaining the global polish that has made her an arena-filling act.