Bangladesh made a symbolic appearance on the opening stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as Bangladeshi-origin singer, music producer, and DJ Sanjoy Deb performed at the opening ceremony at BMO Stadium in Toronto, Canada.
Sanjoy joined Canadian artist Nora Fatehi and French rapper Vegedream to perform FIFA’s newly released World Cup anthem, “Siir Siir.”
While the performance drew global attention, Bangladeshi viewers were particularly captivated by Sanjoy’s outfit. His jacket featured motifs inspired by the Royal Bengal Tiger, the national flower, water lily (shapla), and the red-and-green colors of Bangladesh’s flag.
Throughout the performance, Sanjoy repeatedly pointed to the designs on his sleeves, a gesture many saw as a tribute to his roots.
Originally from Sreemangal in Moulvibazar, Sanjoy moved to the United States with his parents nearly two decades ago.
Through years of dedication to music, he has now earned a place on the opening stage of the world’s biggest football tournament, making the moment a source of pride for many Bangladeshis.
