The FIFA World Cup 2026 has officially kicked off in Mexico City with a colourful opening ceremony at the iconic Estadio Azteca.
The event, which featured performances by international music stars including Shakira and Burna Boy, alongside celebrations of Mexico’s culture and heritage.
The ceremony marked the first of three opening events being held across the tournament’s host nations — Mexico, the United States and Canada.
The opening match between Mexico and South Africa got underway immediately after the ceremony.
Before kick-off, renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli performed the tournament's official anthem.
The 2026 World Cup is the largest in the competition’s history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across 16 host cities in North America.
Kicking off in style 🤩
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) June 11, 2026
The @FIFAWorldCup opening ceremony in Mexico City was special! pic.twitter.com/HvBBvhyjM9
First-half goals send Mexico to comfortable 2-0 victory over Ecuador
Mbappe scores twice as France ease past Sweden 3-0 to reach last 16
Serena and Wawrinka go down fighting at Wimbledon
Norway edge Ivory Coast to advance at World Cup
Australia knock West Indies out to reach Women's T20 World Cup final
