The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially got underway on Thursday with a dazzling opening ceremony led by global music icon Shakira, but the celebrations in Mexico City were overshadowed by chaotic scenes outside the stadium.
Shakira Steals the Spotlight at World Cup Opening
Football’s biggest tournament made its long-awaited return with an unforgettable spectacle at the iconic Estadio Azteca. Before the action began on the pitch, fans were treated to a high-energy performance from Shakira and Burna Boy, who performed Dai Dai, the official song of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
🎥 COMPLETO: Assista à performance de Shakira e Burna Boy cantando “Dai Dai” na cerimônia de abertura da Copa do Mundo FIFA 2026! pic.twitter.com/ZRmltKr9oH
— Central Shakira Brasil 🇧🇷 (@CentralShakira) June 11, 2026
Shakira, making another memorable World Cup appearance after her famous 2010 anthem, commanded the stage in a vibrant neon outfit. Surrounded by hundreds of dancers, she delivered her trademark choreography while a traditional Mexican mariachi band added a local touch to the show.
A giant golden World Cup trophy emerged dramatically from the center of the stage, creating one of the ceremony’s most memorable moments as performers in colorful costumes filled the field.
Star-Studded Lineup Brings the Party to Mexico City
The opening ceremony featured a host of international and Latin American stars. Alejandro Fernandez, Belinda, Danny Ocean, J Balvin, Lila Downs, Los Angeles Azules, Mana and Tyla all took part in the celebrations, showcasing music from the first-ever FIFA World Cup album.
J Balvin energized the crowd with a lively performance alongside Ryan Castro, while legendary Mexican rock band Mana got local supporters on their feet with a selection of their biggest hits.
Mexican actress and FIFA ambassador Salma Hayek officially welcomed the world to the tournament with a short speech before the parade of national flags.
South African singer Tyla also performed her country’s national anthem before kickoff and later joined fellow celebrities in the stands to watch the opening match.
Mexico Opens the Tournament with Victory
The football action finally began with a repeat of the 2010 World Cup opener as hosts Mexico faced South Africa.
The home side delighted supporters with a comfortable 2-0 victory, giving fans inside the packed Estadio Azteca plenty to celebrate as Mexico hosted a World Cup match for a record third time.
Thousands of supporters arrived hours before kickoff, turning the famous stadium into a sea of green, white and red. Many wore traditional sombreros, elaborate headdresses and colorful lucha libre masks to mark the historic occasion.
Canada and the United States Prepare for Their Turn
The celebrations are far from over as Canada and the United States prepare to host their own opening festivities ahead of their first matches.
Canada will begin its campaign against Bosnia and Herzegovina at the newly expanded BMO Field in Toronto. The venue has undergone significant upgrades, increasing its capacity to accommodate the massive crowds expected during the tournament.
With spectacular entertainment, passionate fans and a dramatic opening day both on and off the field, the 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially begun, promising a month of unforgettable football and global celebration.