World Cup Opens in Mexico City with Cultural Celebration
The 2026 World Cup commenced in Mexico City with an opening ceremony showcasing vibrant colors, rich culture, and a performance by international music icon Shakira.
Thousands of enthusiastic fans gathered at the iconic Azteca stadium, eager to witness the World Cup on Mexican soil for the first time in four decades.
The lead-up to the tournament involved significant challenges, including extensive renovations at the airport and Azteca stadium, public protests related to the event, and recent cartel-related violence in Mexico.
Despite these issues, on Thursday, the focus shifted entirely to football as the sport took center stage in Mexico.
Javier Pérez attended the opening match with his family and shared his excitement with the BBC, expressing that the anticipation now surpasses any difficulties experienced during the preparations.
"We were lucky to get hospitality tickets and it's a unique experience. I have never been to a World Cup before so to bring my family is wonderful," he said.
"I just want Mexico to get off on the right foot, win today and score a load of goals! And then we'll see how far we can go!"
Mexico is co-hosting the 2026 World Cup alongside the United States and Canada, with those nations holding their own opening ceremonies on Friday.
For now, attention remains on Mexico's celebrations. Prior to the co-hosts’ match against South Africa, attendees at the stadium enjoyed performances by Shakira, Colombian artist J Balvin, Afrobeats star Burna Boy, Latin music sensation Danny Ocean, and Fher Olvera.
As the tournament began, a performer welcomed the crowd with the words, "Bienvenida a México. Welcome to Mexico."
He continued, "Mexico receives you with smiles from our heart. We are a nation of diversity, heritage and pride. Football carries the same heartbeat, uniting generations. The trophy is not defined by one player or nation but by all."
Performers donned traditional indigenous attire, while others wore all-gold outfits and held large golden footballs above their heads.
The stadium was packed with fans dressed in colorful clothing, many sporting Mexico’s team colors.
National Anthems and Official Songs Highlight Ceremony
Opera legend Andrea Bocelli and K-Pop group Demon Hunters’ singer Ejae performed the official tournament anthem "DNA," which was released officially on Wednesday.
Mexican singer Fernández, son of renowned vocalist Vicente Fernández, led the Mexican national anthem in unison with approximately 80,000 fans in attendance.
Grammy-winning South African artist Tyla performed her country’s national anthem.
Tyla, known for hits such as "Water" and the FIFA track "Game Time," is scheduled to return to the World Cup stage on Friday for the US opening ceremony in Los Angeles, where she will perform alongside Katy Perry, Future, Lisa, and Anitta.
FIFA has enlisted a diverse group of global artists for the ceremonies, many of whom feature on the 18-song Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Album.
Additional Highlights
Mexican Air Force helicopters flew over the opening ceremony, displaying the Mexican flag as part of the festivities.
Fireworks illuminated the sky during the opening ceremony ahead of the Group A match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium on June 11, 2026.
Dancers in colorful traditional Mexican dresses performed during the opening ceremony, adding to the cultural richness of the event.
The Mexican and South African flags were prominently displayed during the ceremony, symbolizing the spirit of international competition and unity.
Additional reporting by Elizabeth Conway, at the Azteca Stadium.
