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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Mathew Davies

World Cup opening ceremony start time, TV channel and who is performing

The World Cup in Qatar gets under way this weekend.

The hosts face Ecuador on Sunday in the opening match of the tournament, held in the Middle East for the first time in its history.

Millions will be tuning in from around the globe before the match starts to watch the traditional opening ceremony, which attracts big-name stars from the entertainment world.

Here is everything you need to know about the grand opening...

When is the opening ceremony?

It takes place before Qatar play Ecuador, which kicks off at 4pm UK time. The ceremony is due to start at 2pm UK time.

Where will it be held?

The event takes place at Al Bayt Stadium, which is around 40km north of the capital, Doha.

The stadium is a 60,000-seater arena.

Send your message of support to the Wales football team at the World Cup here

How can I watch it on TV?

The game and opening ceremony will be shown live on BBC1. Coverage starts at 3pm.

What about streaming?

You can stream the event on BBC's iPlayer and the BBC website. You can also follow it with us here on our football page.

Who will be performing?

FIFA are yet to confirm who exactly is on the full bill for Sunday's launch, but Jung Kook, who is one of seven members of the South Korean boy band BTS, is definitely performing. The band's official Twitter account confirmed the news.

Robbie Williams has recently confirmed his attendance, while the Black Eyed Peas have also been rumoured to be appearing, alongside actress Nora Fatehi.

Dua Lipa and Rod Stewart are two artists who distanced themselves from performing at the spectacle.

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