A packed Estadio Azteca played host to a vibrant opening ceremony that blended music, culture and football before Mexico and South Africa got the ball rolling at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Mexican acts opened the entertainment segment, while J Balvin and Ryan Castro brought reggaeton energy to the stadium.
One of the most anticipated moments of the night followed when Shakira and Burna Boy took centre stage to perform Dai Dai, the official song of FIFA World Cup 2026.
The festivities concluded with a parade of the flags of all 48 participating nations, while Andrea Bocelli and EJAE delivered a pre-match musical performance before the players from both teams could take center stage.
The night also marked a historic milestone for the venue, which became the first stadium to host opening events at three different FIFA World Cups, having previously welcomed the world in 1970 and 1986.
For the first time, 48 teams will compete for football’s biggest prize, with matches being staged across Mexico, the United States and Canada.
Follow the highlights from the FIFA World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony below and stay tuned to NDTV Profit for the latest news, results and analysis throughout the tournament.