The big moment soccer fans worldwide have been waiting for has arrived: On Thursday, the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off with a grand opening ceremony in Mexico City. Before the opening match between Mexico and South Africa at the Estadio Azteca, several stars brought excitement to the impressive Aztec Stadium.
Shakira, J Balvin and Andrea Bocelli Heat Up the Atmosphere
The performance by superstar Shakira (49) was particularly anticipated. Together with Burna Boy (34) from Nigeria and numerous dancers, the Colombian singer performed the official World Cup song "Dai Dai" for the first time in front of a giant replica of the iconic trophy.
Additional performances included Colombian singer J Balvin (41) and star tenor Andrea Bocelli (67), who performed "DNA", the anthem for the World Cup, alongside singer Ejae (34) and DJ David Guetta (58), who appeared via video screen. The collaboration by Bocelli, Ejae, Guetta and rapper Megan Thee Stallion (31) had only recently been unveiled as the official anthem.
Before kickoff, the ceremony also featured a brief appearance by Hollywood star Salma Hayek (59) as well as a parade of the flags of the 48 participating countries. Hayek also presented the World Cup trophy alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino (56).
Two More Opening Ceremonies Planned
This is a World Cup of superlatives. For the first time, 48 teams will compete in a total of 104 matches. Spread across 16 host cities, the World Cup is being hosted by three countries - Mexico, Canada and the United States. There will also be opening ceremonies in the USA and Canada during the first matches. Performances by Katy Perry (41), Future (42) and Anitta (33) in Los Angeles, as well as Alanis Morissette (52), Michael Bublé (50) and Alessia Cara (29) in Toronto are planned for June 12.
