Rita Ora, the British pop sensation known for her electrifying stage presence and bold fashion choices, has once again captured the spotlight—though this time, it’s not at the Grammys. On February 5, 2026, Ora took to her verified Instagram account to share a carousel of photos and a short clip, showcasing herself in a dazzling cobalt-blue cheerleader-style minidress. The timing of her post was unmistakable: with the caption, “Apparently there’s a big game this weekend. Anyway here’s me as a cheerleader,” Ora cheekily nodded to the upcoming Super Bowl rather than the glitz of the Grammy Awards, signaling her absence from the latter’s ceremony.
The ensemble itself was a showstopper. Covered in dense sequins, the minidress featured a crystal-detailed high neckline and a distinctive small chest cutout—an unmissable design element that anchored the look. Red and silver trim provided sharp, athletic lines, while a pleated skirt kept movement front and center, according to Reality Tea. Ora completed her cheerleader moment with oversized metallic pom-poms, bold makeup, and a voluminous blonde blowout, topped off with statement silver hoop earrings and red knee-high boots. The look, both playful and performative, was widely praised by fans. One commented, “Go Rita GOOOO!” while another wrote, “just truly the hottest girl in the gameee???”
But Ora’s post wasn’t just about fashion. The singer, 35, appeared in good spirits as she ran on stage in her eye-catching cheerleader outfit, embracing the fun of Super Bowl weekend with a wink to her followers. According to the Daily Mail, the post served as a lighthearted alternative to the high-pressure world of awards shows, with Ora choosing to celebrate sport, spectacle, and self-expression. Her playful approach resonated with fans, who quickly filled the comments with encouragement and admiration.
As the Super Bowl approaches—set for Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium, where the New England Patriots will face off against the Seattle Seahawks—the entertainment lineup is generating its own buzz. Bad Bunny is slated to headline the halftime show, promising a dynamic performance that’s sure to captivate millions. Adding to the fanfare, actor Chris Pratt, a die-hard Seattle supporter, will introduce the Seahawks to the field, while rock legend Jon Bon Jovi has been tapped to welcome the Patriots, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Ora’s sidestep from the Grammys isn’t a retreat from the spotlight. In fact, she’s busier than ever. The British hitmaker is actively working on new music, including a track titled “Heat,” and remains a fixture on television. She’s also involved in acting projects, notably with Disney’s “Descendants: Wicked Wonderland.” The singer recently teased her fourth studio album, set for release later this year. In a handwritten note shared with fans, she wrote, “album 4,” and added, “2026 will be a good year.”
Yet, the journey to her new album hasn’t been without its hiccups. Just last month, a song dedicated to her husband, film director Taika Waititi, surfaced online ahead of schedule. The track, “Tokyo Karaoke,” draws inspiration from a trip to Japan, where Ora fell in love with Waititi. According to The Sun, the song was initially intended for her third album, You & I, and includes heartfelt lyrics such as, “I always talked myself out of love like I was never really good enough. Now when I’m down, you always lift me up. Slow kiss this cherry blossom lipstick off. So pour it up, this night is for us.”
Ora addressed the leak with characteristic poise, sharing a screenshot of a fansite that posted the song and telling her followers, “Guess leaking is still a thing. Luckily I actually love this song. So enjoy. Thanks to whoever leaked it.” Her response, as reported by the Daily Mail, was a testament to her resilience and connection with her fans.
Beyond her career milestones, Ora has been candid about her personal life, especially her role as a stepmother to Waititi’s two daughters, Te Kāinga o te Hinekāhu and Matewa Kiritapu. The couple married in 2022 after a friendship spanning five years and a romance that blossomed in 2021. Speaking to The Sun, Ora reflected on the impact of becoming a stepmother: “It’s really easy. We wake up, we work out together with the kids running on the treadmills, it’s a family affair. I have to say it’s been a real eye-opener to understand that sometimes there’s more to life than what you care about in that moment. I’ve realised there’s so much more, so [becoming a stepmother] did give me that.”
Her evolving perspective extends to her approach to health and fitness. On February 5, 2026, Ora shared insights into her routine, emphasizing the importance of small, sustainable habits over punishing workouts. “You don’t need to hit 10k steps,” she explained, shifting her focus from intense cardio to strength training and Pilates. Consistency and self-care have become her guiding principles, with movement seen as accessible and fundamental—no expensive classes or equipment required. Sometimes, she opts for 20-minute workouts in hotel rooms or strength classes when possible. Ora’s approach, as highlighted in Reality Tea, is about mental health and sustainability, not rigid fitness goals or appearances.
This shift in mindset reflects a broader trend among celebrities and everyday people alike: prioritizing well-being over perfection. Ora’s willingness to share her journey, both personal and professional, has endeared her to fans and positioned her as a relatable figure in an industry often marked by unattainable standards.
Meanwhile, the Super Bowl itself is shaping up to be a cultural event of the year. With the Patriots and Seahawks preparing for a high-stakes clash, and stars like Bad Bunny, Chris Pratt, and Jon Bon Jovi adding to the spectacle, the weekend promises excitement far beyond the field. Ora’s playful Instagram post, rooted in celebration rather than competition, captures the spirit of the moment—one of unity, performance, and a little bit of fun.
As Rita Ora continues to balance her music, acting, and family life, she remains a dynamic force in pop culture. Whether she’s dazzling in sequins or sharing insights on self-care, her authenticity and energy are unmistakable. For fans and followers, her message is clear: embrace the big moments, cherish the small habits, and never be afraid to cheer yourself on—even if it’s from the sidelines.