How 2026 FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony Unfolded — Photos

The opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup took place in Mexico City, with the show at the iconic Estadio Azteca blending live music, Mexican cultural traditions, and a symbolic handover to what is set to become the largest tournament in football history.

The evening’s headline performers were Shakira and Burna Boy, who debuted the official 2026 World Cup anthem, Dai Dai. For Shakira, the performance marked another return to football’s biggest stage, where she remains closely associated with the World Cup thanks to her hit song Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).

Other performers included J Balvin, the Mexican rock band Maná, as well as Mexican singers Alejandro Fernández and Belinda, reflecting the musical diversity of North and Latin America.

The 2026 tournament is historic not only because of its star-studded opening show but also because of its format. For the first time, 48 national teams will compete in the finals, up from 32 in previous editions. The tournament is also being hosted jointly by three countries: Mexico, United States and Canada.

Another innovation is the introduction of three separate opening ceremonies. Alongside the event in Mexico, celebrations were also held in Canada and the United States, featuring performances by artists including Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé, Katy Perry and LISA.

Following the festivities, attention turned to the tournament’s opening match, officially launching a month of football action that will culminate in the final on July 19. Organizers have described the 2026 World Cup as a landmark event due to both its scale and the number of innovations introduced.

The 2026 edition will also be historic for Uzbekistan, whose national team has qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in its history.