According to **The Associated Press**, Hip-Hop icons 50 Cent and Nelly have been tapped to headline a major new concert series titled “SI Beyond the Pitch,” launched by Sports Illustrated. The event series will coincide with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing high-energy performances to host cities including Los Angeles, Dallas, Miami, and New York throughout June and July.
**TSN** reported that the Los Angeles kickoff is scheduled for June 12 at the Hollywood Palladium, featuring Nelly, while 50 Cent will close the series on July 18 at Cipriani Wall Street. An official statement from the organizers noted, “This series marks one of the biggest pushes into live entertainment surrounding major sports events.” **Sports Illustrated**’s official handles also teased “VIP fan experiences” that will feature additional sets from Diplo and Gordo.
**Echotitbits take:**
This is a calculated nostalgia play. By booking 2000s Hip-Hop heavyweights for a global tournament, organizers are targeting the “millennial dad” demographic that now has the disposable income for “VIP fan experiences.” It also proves that 50 Cent’s brand remains a massive draw for global sporting events, bridging the gap between US urban culture and international soccer fans.
Source: [TSN] — [https://www.tsn.ca/soccer/fifa-world-cup/article/50-cent-nelly-and-the-chainsmokers-to-headline-sports-illustrated-concert-series-during-world-cup/], [May 11, 2026]
Photo Credit: [TSN]
