Afrobeats icon David Adeleke, globally recognized as Davido, is slated to make a triumphant return to one of Africa's most prestigious sporting spectacles. He has been officially announced as the headline performer for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) official kick-off concert, an event designed to dramatically ignite the tournament’s festivities and serve as the premier pre-tournament celebration.

This high-profile concert is scheduled to take place on Sunday, December 21, at the vibrant Olm Souissi Fan Zone located in Rabat, Morocco. Davido, who stands as a global ambassador for the Afrobeats genre, will not be alone on stage. He is set to share the spotlight with an eclectic and diverse international lineup, showcasing the rich tapestry of global music talent. The ensemble includes renowned American rapper French Montana, talented Moroccan artists Douaa Lahyaoui and Says’z, and the dynamic Franco-Moroccan rapper Lartiste. This carefully curated blend of musical talents is intended to profoundly underscore the cultural fusion and the deep-seated pan-African spirit that the AFCON tournament embodies.

Access to this much-anticipated kick-off concert is seamlessly integrated into the overall tournament’s fan experience. Spectators eager to witness this musical extravaganza must ensure they have secured their official FIFA Fan IDs and valid match tickets for the event. This approach ensures that the concert remains an exclusive and integral part of the AFCON celebration for dedicated fans.

For Davido, this upcoming performance represents a significant and compelling full-circle moment in his illustrious career. He previously delivered an unforgettable and memorable performance at the opening ceremony of AFCON 2017, held in Gabon. His consistent selection for such high-profile events powerfully highlights his esteemed status as a preferred artist for major global sporting and cultural gatherings. Beyond AFCON, Davido has previously graced prestigious stages including the 2022 FIFA World Cup draw in Doha, Qatar, and the 2023 Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Awards in the United Kingdom, solidifying his reputation as a global entertainer.

The 2025 AFCON finals are officially scheduled to commence on the same day as the concert, Sunday, December 21. The host nation, Morocco, will face Comoros in what promises to be an exciting opening match, set to be played at the historic Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah, also in Rabat. Davido’s electrifying performance at the kick-off concert is widely expected to set an exhilarating tone for the entire tournament, a competition celebrated not only for its thrilling and electric football but equally for its vibrant and rich cultural celebrations that bring the continent together.