9 International artists who have performed at FNB Stadium in South Africa

Global stars who have rocked FNB Stadium in South Africa

Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium, also known as Soccer City has long been Africa’s ultimate stage for global superstars.

With a seating capacity of over 90,000, it has hosted some of the biggest international music events on the continent, from record-breaking concerts to historic one-night shows that brought the city to a standstill.

Here’s a look at international artists who have taken over FNB Stadium with unforgettable performances.

1. Beyoncé and JAY-Z – Global Citizen Festival, 2018

In December 2018, the power couple headlined the Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100, celebrating Nelson Mandela’s centenary. The event brought together a star-studded lineup, including Ed Sheeran, Pharrell Williams, Usher, and Wizkid.
With over 100,000 attendees, it wasn’t just a concert, it was a global movement combining music and activism, making it one of the most iconic shows in FNB Stadium history.

2. Ed Sheeran – Divide World Tour, 2019

The British megastar performed two sold-out nights at FNB Stadium in March 2019 during his Divide World Tour.
Each night drew more than 60,000 fans, with a combined audience of over 130,000 people, placing him among the highest-attended concerts at the venue. Fans sang along to hits like Perfect and Shape of You, cementing his connection with South African audiences.

3. One Direction – On The Road Again Tour, 2015

When One Direction touched down in Johannesburg, hysteria followed. Their On The Road Again Tour brought tens of thousands of fans, many experiencing their first-ever live concert. The group’s two-night run at FNB Stadium attracted over 130,000 Directioners, proving the band’s global pop power before they went on hiatus.

4. U2 – 360° Tour, 2011

U2’s 2011 concert at FNB Stadium remains legendary. As part of their 360° Tour, the Irish rock band delivered a spectacular show with a futuristic stage setup known as “The Claw.” With around 94,000 fans in attendance, it was one of the biggest concerts ever staged in South Africa — and a technical masterpiece that set new standards for live production on the continent.

5. Chris Brown – Under The Influence Tour, 2024

Chris Brown made history in December 2024 with two sold-out nights at FNB Stadium during his Under The Influence World Tour. Drawing more than 90,000 fans each night, Breezy joined the elite list of global artists who have filled the stadium to capacity.
His performance included viral choreography and hit songs like Under The Influence and No Guidance, marking one of the year’s biggest international shows in South Africa.

6. Rihanna – Diamonds World Tour, 2013

Rihanna’s Diamonds World Tour brought glitz, glamour, and global star power to Johannesburg. Performing to over 67,000 fans, the Barbadian singer proved her reign extended far beyond America’s borders. Her FNB show remains one of the top-attended female concerts in South African history.

7. Bon Jovi – Because We Can Tour, 2013

Rock icons Bon Jovi brought their Because We Can Tour to FNB Stadium, thrilling fans with classic hits like It’s My Life and Livin’ on a Prayer. The show was a high-energy celebration of rock and roll, reinforcing FNB Stadium’s reputation as a venue fit for every genre, from pop to hard rock.

8. Linkin Park – Living Things Tour, 2012

Before the tragic passing of frontman Chester Bennington, Linkin Park lit up FNB Stadium with one of the most emotional rock performances South Africa has ever seen. Fans still recall the electrifying energy of hits like Numb and In The End, which echoed through the stadium in a night that has since become legendary among local rock fans.

9. Travis Scott – Circus Maximus World Tour, 2025

In October 2025, Travis Scott joined the list of global artists to sell out FNB Stadium. His Circus Maximus Tour brought an explosive mix of lights, fire, and stage design that transformed the arena into a visual spectacle.
Tens of thousands of fans filled the venue, proving that FNB Stadium remains the go-to destination for world-class performances.

Why FNB Stadium remains Africa’s concert capital

From rock legends to pop idols and hip-hop powerhouses, FNB Stadium continues to attract the world’s biggest names. Its massive capacity, rich cultural significance, and passionate South African audiences make it a dream venue for artists looking to create history on African soil.