The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup commenced with a dazzling opening ceremony at Mexico City’s iconic Estadio Azteca. Spanish actress Salma Hayek and FIFA president Gianni Infantino inaugurated the tournament by placing the trophy inside the stadium. Thousands of fans witnessed the official start of the event, which marked the beginning of a month-long celebration across North America.
Global music stars Shakira and Burna Boy took the stage at the star-studded event, performing the tournament’s official anthem, “Dai Dai.” Their vibrant show filled the stadium with color, lights, and music, creating an electric atmosphere before the opening match. The festivities, including cultural performances and visual displays, highlighted the rich heritage of the host nation, engaging fans from around the world in the celebrations.
Estadio Azteca’s historical significance added a unique dimension to the occasion, being the first stadium to host World Cup matches in three different editions of the tournament. Renowned football legends like Pelé and Diego Maradona have graced its turf in past World Cup editions, further enhancing its legacy. Now, after four decades, the Azteca once again became the focal point of football history as the 2026 tournament officially kicked off in a memorable manner.
The captivating opening ceremony set the stage for the inaugural match between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, followed by a game between South Korea and Czechia.
