The FIFA World Cup opening ceremony delivered a spectacular celebration of music, culture and unity as Mexico welcomed the world to the 2026 tournament at Estadio Azteca on June 11.
The FIFA World Cup opening ceremony began with a tribute to Mexico’s indigenous heritage and Aztec culture. Performers filled the pitch while acclaimed Mexican singer Lila Downs greeted fans in both Spanish and English.
“People of the world, welcome to Mexico,” she said, emphasizing how the tournament brings nations together. A giant golden World Cup trophy stood at the center of the ceremony as Telemundo reporters explained that the production drew inspiration from ancestry and culture.
Ahead of the opening match between Mexico and South Africa, World Cup Ambassador Salma Hayek Pinault addressed supporters from around the globe.
“In this stadium, along with Canada and the United States we welcome the 48 flags,” she said in Spanish. “Us Mexicans are very honored to be here where the World Cup begins.”
Her remarks were followed by a parade of flags representing all 48 nations competing in the tournament.
The FIFA World Cup opening ceremony then showcased a vibrant lineup of musical performances. Venezuelan singer Danny Ocean brought his signature mix of Latin pop, reggaeton and electronic dance music to the stage. Accompanied by dancers from Ballet Folklórico de México, he performed the official tournament track “Partidazo,” which also features on the official World Cup album.
Belinda and Los Ángeles Azules followed with an energetic performance of “Por Ella (FIFA World Cup 2026).” The Mexican pop star appeared in a hot pink corset top and embellished jeans, while the members of Los Ángeles Azules wore matching gold outfits. Together, they delivered a lively rendition of the song created for the official FIFA World Cup album.
Legendary Mexican pop-rock band Maná ignited the crowd with their classic 1992 hit “Oye Mi Amor.” Lead singer Fher Olvera took the stage in a long red trench coat as fans sang along to the beloved anthem, one of the standout moments of the FIFA World Cup opening ceremony.
Colombian superstar J Balvin kept the energy high when he joined forces with fellow Colombian artist Ryan Castro. Balvin opened with his hit “Que Calor (Qué calor)” before teaming up with Castro for their 2026 collaboration “Una A La Vez.” He closed his set with “I Like It,” his global hit alongside Cardi B and Bad Bunny.
The FIFA World Cup opening ceremony also honored the tournament’s historic expansion from 32 to 48 teams. Flag bearers entered the stadium one by one carrying their nations’ flags before forming a circle around the pitch. Canada, the United States and Mexico received special recognition as the three host countries.
The procession resembled an Olympic-style ceremony and highlighted the global reach of the tournament. Following the parade, renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and “K-Pop Demon Hunters” singer EJAE performed “DNA,” the official FIFA World Cup 2026 anthem. Although they were not present at the event, David Guetta and Megan Thee Stallion also feature on the song, which supports the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.
Shakira Lights Up World Cup Opening Ceremony as Burna Boy Steals the Stage
The biggest moment of the FIFA World Cup opening ceremony arrived when global music icon Shakira took the stage. Weeks before the tournament, FIFA invited the Colombian superstar to create an official anthem and perform at the ceremony. The appearance marked her third World Cup anthem and her third participation in a World Cup opening celebration.
Shakira debuted her new song “Dai Dai” and immediately energized the crowd with her vocals and trademark dance moves. Moments later, Nigerian Grammy-winning star Burna Boy joined her on stage, drawing a deafening reaction from fans inside the stadium.
The pair delivered a thrilling performance as dancers filled the field with synchronized choreography. Shakira and her dancers executed every move flawlessly, while Burna Boy matched the energy with his own dance crew.
As the performance reached its climax, the two global stars came together at center stage and sang, “Dale, allez, let’s go!” The crowd erupted as fireworks and cheers closed a memorable FIFA World Cup opening ceremony that celebrated culture, music and football on a truly global scale.
