The FIFA World Cup 26™ is expected to hit the highest of notes, from the sounds of jubilant fans in stadiums and sublime skills of the greatest players in the world to the historic first half-time show at the final in New York New Jersey Stadium. And the diversity and creativity of the global showpiece has been amplified by FIFA’s unique Sonic ID initiative, which launched in March.
Some of the most talented and influential producers from the 16 Host Cities across Canada, Mexico and the United States have come together to create bespoke Sonic IDs – audio brands that connect the FIFA World Cup 26 with Host Cities’ respective communities in a unique and memorable way.
Each Host City selected a producer to remix the Official FIFA World Cup 26™ Theme, infusing it with the distinct rhythm, vibe and cultural essence of their city. Toronto has collaborated with local producer and multi-instrumentalist Hill Kourkoutis, who has pulled the diverse sounds of the city’s multi-cultural communities into her Sonic ID.
“One of the primary inspirations for the Sonic ID is Toronto’s multi-cultural identity,” said Kourkoutis. “Toronto is made up of so many ethnic enclaves and diverse neighbourhoods. I grew up experiencing so many cultures that shaped the music and sounds I heard around me just by walking through the streets here.
“What’s really exciting about Toronto being a Host City is that there really isn’t any other place like it. We are one of the most culturally-diverse cities in the world and it is the embracement of that diversity that sets us apart as a unique place.”
The Toronto Sonic ID will be incorporated in marketing, promotional and social media campaigns ahead of the global showpiece.
Fans will be able to stream, download and enjoy their city-specific Sonic IDs on popular music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and more, and watch each city’s Sonic ID visualiser on FIFA’s YouTube channel.
In addition, the full Toronto playlist is available on Spotify. Featuring tracks about Toronto and a mix of global stars and local talent from the Greater Toronto Area, the playlist is packed with upbeat vibes, hometown pride, and the diverse sounds that define the city. Artists include The Weeknd, Shawn Mendes, Drake, PartyNextDoor and Barenaked Ladies.
