The Kaiser Chiefs will headline the opening of the Rugby League World Cup after organisers confirmed the act as part of the tournament welcome celebrations at St James' Park on Saturday October 15. Newcastle plays host to the opening match of the men's tournament, with England up against it in their opening Group A match against Samoa.
Organisers are hoping for a sell out at St James' Park, and the announcement of the multiple Brit Award-winning band as special guests before kick-off will certainly help with the fevered atmosphere expected at the stadium.
The indie-rock band will perform on the pitch at the home of Newcastle United just before the opening fixture which kicks-off at 2.30pm, with the set part of a special build-up to the match.
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Throughout the day there will be various fan experiences taking place in and around Newcastle city centre to create what organisers have called 'the ultimate opening day party', including the Fan Village on the Quayside and the unique Cultural Festival, which gives fans the chance to see a full story being told via various performances throughout the city centre.
The Kaiser Chiefs will then take to the stage and perform whilst 32 flag bearers representing each nation across all three tournaments will take to the pitch., with Wor Flags having linked up with organisers to help provide a special pre-match presentation in the stands.
Kaiser Chiefs said: “All of us are huge sport fans so playing in front of a massive crowd at such an iconic stadium will be an honour. St James’ Park will be absolutely rocking and we’re there to ensure that when those players walk out onto that pitch, every single person in that stadium will be up for one of the biggest sporting events in Rugby League history.”
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