The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicked off on June 11 with a spectacular opening ceremony at Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium. Global music sensations Shakira and Burna Boy headlined the event, performing their collaborative official anthem for this World Cup, 'Dai Dai'. The track notably references football legends such as Pelé, Diego Maradona, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Mo Salah, igniting excitement among fans worldwide.
The ceremony, which took place before the opening match between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, featured a diverse array of musical talent. Mexican Latin rock veterans Maná opened the show with their 1992 hit 'Oye Mi Amor', drawing an audible sing-along from the thousands in attendance. Venezuelan reggaeton artist Danny Ocean followed, performing 'Partidazo', a song from the official 2026 FIFA World Cup album. Mexican cumbia band Los Ángeles Azules then performed 'Por Ella' alongside Spanish-Mexican singer Belinda, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
J Balvin subsequently took to the stage, delivering a medley that included 'Qué Calor', 'Una A La Vez', and his 2018 collaboration with Cardi B, 'I Like It'. The energy culminated with Shakira and Burna Boy's highly anticipated performance of 'Dai Dai'. This marks Shakira's third official World Cup song, following her previous anthems 'Waka Waka (This Time For Africa)' in 2010 and 'Dare (La La La)' in 2014, solidifying her status as a recurring fixture in World Cup musical celebrations.
While Mexico hosted the initial festivities, the tournament is a tri-nation event, with Canada and the USA also serving as co-hosts. Separate opening ceremonies are scheduled for June 12 in these respective countries. The Canadian ceremony is set to feature performances by Alanis Morissette, Alessia Cara, and Michael Bublé, while the USA's event will boast an impressive lineup including Katy Perry, Future, Anitta, Lisa, Rema, and Tyla, promising further star-studded entertainment.
Beyond the initial ceremonies, Shakira is also confirmed to be part of the inaugural World Cup Final Halftime Show on July 19. This historic event, curated by Coldplay's Chris Martin, will take place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and will see Shakira joined by music icons Madonna and BTS. This extensive musical programming underscores FIFA's commitment to integrating global entertainment with the pinnacle of international football.