Canadian singer Tate McRae brings World Cup match ball to Spain vs. Belgium game

Canadian pop sensation Tate McRae captured attention not just for her music, but for her unexpected appearance at the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final match between Spain and Belgium. The 23-year-old singer had the honor of bringing the official match ball onto the pitch before kickoff, an event that quickly went viral on social media.

McRae, born in Calgary, Canada, has become a prominent figure in the international pop scene. Her journey to stardom began at a young age, gaining global recognition in 2016 as the first Canadian to reach the finals of the U.S. reality competition "So You Think You Can Dance." Her exceptional talent as a dancer opened doors in the entertainment industry, setting the stage for her future success.

Following her dance career, McRae pivoted to music. In 2017, she launched "Create With Tate" on YouTube, a platform where she shared original songs written and recorded from her bedroom. One track, "One Day," written at just 14 years old, garnered over 40 million streams, leading to its release as an independent single. This early success attracted the attention of major record labels.

In 2019, McRae signed with RCA Records, a significant milestone in her burgeoning music career. She subsequently released the EPs "All the Things I Never Said" (2020) and "Too Young to Be Sad" (2021), solidifying her position as a rising star in the pop music landscape. Her Instagram account boasts over 9.5 million followers, testament to her widespread appeal.