The 2026 FIFA World Cup got underway on Thursday with a spectacular opening ceremony in Mexico City, setting a vibrant tone for the tournament. The historic Azteca Stadium, a venue steeped in footballing history, was the centre of festivities, drawing thousands of enthusiastic fans eager to witness the global spectacle on home soil for the first time in four decades. The event unfolded amidst a backdrop of colourful displays, local cultural expressions, and performances from an array of international music stars.
Global music icon Shakira led a star-studded line-up of performers, captivating the crowd with her energetic presence. She was joined by fellow artists from the tournament's official soundtrack, including Colombia's J Balvin, Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy, Latin music star Danny Ocean, and Mexican rock legend Fher Olvera. The ceremony also featured local talent, with Mexican singer Fernández, son of the esteemed crooner Vicente Fernández, performing the Mexican national anthem. Grammy-winning South African artist Tyla, known for hits like 'Water', also sang her nation's anthem, adding to the international flavour of the occasion.
The build-up to the tournament in Mexico has seen its share of challenges, including extensive renovations to the airport and Azteca Stadium, alongside protests and concerns over cartel violence in the months prior. However, on Thursday, these issues appeared to recede as the focus shifted entirely to football. Javier Pérez, attending the opener with his family, expressed the overwhelming excitement, telling the BBC, "The excitement now outweighs any hassles experienced up to this point. I just want Mexico to get off on the right foot, win today and score a load of goals!"
Fans in the stadium contributed to the festive atmosphere, many adorned in Mexico's team colours and vibrant outfits. Performers showcased indigenous clothing, while others held giant golden footballs, creating a visually stunning spectacle. Following the conclusion of the ceremony, as the co-hosts prepared to face South Africa, thousands of sombreros were reportedly thrown into the air, signalling the collective elation and anticipation for the matches ahead.
Mexico is one of three North American nations co-hosting the 2026 World Cup, with the United States and Canada scheduled to hold their own opening ceremonies on Friday. Tyla, who performed at the Mexico City event, is also slated to appear at the US opening ceremony in Los Angeles, alongside other global artists such as Katy Perry, Future, Lisa, and Anitta, further extending the celebratory mood across the continent.