The 2026 World Cup kicked off with a spectacular opening ceremony at Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium, featuring global superstars Shakira, Andrea Bocelli, and Salma Hayek. The June 11 event blended football, music, and cultural heritage before Mexico's 2-0 victory over South Africa, setting the stage for the expanded 48-team tournament. Russian Gazette+2
Shakira debuted the official World Cup song "Dai Dai" alongside Burna Boy, marking her third World Cup performance after 2006 and 2010. Opera legend Andrea Bocelli delivered the emotional theme "DNA," while Salma Hayek represented Mexican cultural pride. The ceremony honored football icons Pelé and Maradona through artistic tributes. China.org+1
For the first time, simultaneous opening ceremonies occurred across all three host nations (Mexico, Canada, U.S.). Mexico's showcase featured traditional剪纸 art projections and a 80,000-strong crowd singalong. FIFA emphasized unity through football while celebrating each country's distinct heritage. China.org+1
The historic stadium hosted its sixth World Cup opener, now featuring: