When is the 2022 World Cup opening ceremony, TV channel, how to stream FREE and who will be performing in Qatar?

WE are closing in on the highly-anticipated winter World Cup in Qatar – and fans can expect to see a great show before the opening match THIS WEEKEND.

Host nation Qatar is scheduled to face a tough Ecuador side on the first day.

But before the big kick-off, there are the usual formalities which include an opening ceremony.

And SunSport has all the information on where it will be and who could be performing.

When is the 2022 World Cup opening ceremony?

The winter World Cup opening ceremony is set to take place on Sunday, November 20.

It is expected to get underway at 3pm UK time – one hour before the Qatar vs Ecuador which kicks off at 4pm UK time.

Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor, north of the capital of Doha is the allocated arena for this huge fixture.

And Al Bayt Stadium can host around 60,000 spectators.

How can I watch the opening ceremony?

• The opening ceremony will be broadcast live on TV in the UK.
• You can watch this on BBC One, where they will also be showing Qatar vs Ecuador after the ceremony.
• If you have a TV licence, you can stream the opening ceremony on BBC iPlayer or via the BBC Sport website.

Who will be performing at the 2022 World Cup opening ceremony?

Bollywood star Nora Fatehi has officially been confirmed which is a big moment for the Indian entertainment industry.

The other artist confirmed for the ceremony is BTS singer and K-Pop star Jung Kook.

Reports suggest that hip-hop artists Black Eyed Peas and J Balvin will be performing.

Shakira is a strong candidate to get on stage having already had World Cup soundtrack experience with her “Waka Waka (this time from Africa)”; song for the 2010 edition.

Nigerian artist Kizz Daniel is another name mentioned as well as American rap idol Lil Baby.

But British fans will be disappointed to hear that Dua Lipa, who was claimed to be performing in the opening ceremony of the most prestigious tournament, has rubbished these rumours.