In a spectacular opening ceremony for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, music icons such as Shakira, Maná, J Balvin, Belinda, Los Ángeles Azules, Danny Ocean, Lila Downs, Alejandro Fernández, and Tyla dazzled over 87,000 fans at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium.
Kicking off approximately 90 minutes before the first match between Mexico and South Africa, the ceremony was a vibrant display of Mexican cultural identity, blending music, dance, and pre-Hispanic elements.
The event commenced with a symbolic scene featuring dancers wearing Texacoatl-inspired helmets, representing the feathered serpent, a deity of great significance in Mesoamerican times. Golden balls symbolizing gold and a large turquoise sheet covering the stadium's grass further enriched the visual spectacle.
Lila Downs opened the show, showcasing Mexico's indigenous roots by singing in languages such as Mixtec and Maya, while the sound of the huehuetl, an Aztec drum made from various tree trunks, resonated through the stadium.
Alejandro Fernández delivered the Mexican National Anthem, and Tyla sang the South African National Anthem, setting the stage for the inaugural match between the two nations.
Direct from the stadium field, Maná thrilled the audience with their hit "Oye mi amor," prompting a chorus of thousands to sing along.
The highlight of the evening was Shakira's performance of "Dai Dai," the official song of the World Cup. Clad in yellow and accompanied by dozens of dancers in white and yellow outfits, Shakira was framed by a giant replica of the World Cup Trophy.
Adding to the stellar lineup were performances by J Balvin, Belinda, Los Ángeles Azules, and Danny Ocean, completing a roster unveiled by FIFA on May 9 for the opening ceremonies in Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
After the ceremony, Mexico and South Africa took to the field to recreate their 2010 World Cup opening match in Johannesburg, marking the first time in history the same matchup has inaugurated two different World Cups.
Highlights and Performers of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony
Who were the main performers at the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony?
The main performers included Shakira, Maná, J Balvin, Belinda, Los Ángeles Azules, Danny Ocean, Lila Downs, Alejandro Fernández, and Tyla.
What was the highlight performance of the ceremony?
Shakira's performance of "Dai Dai," the official song of the World Cup, was the highlight, featuring a vibrant display with dancers and a giant World Cup Trophy replica.
Which countries participated in the inaugural match?
Mexico and South Africa competed in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.