The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially got underway in spectacular fashion on Thursday night, with global music stars Burna Boy and Shakira delivering a memorable opening ceremony at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City before the tournament’s first match between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa.
The ceremony set the tone for what promises to be the biggest World Cup in history, with fans from across the globe gathering to celebrate the start of football’s premier competition.
The renovated Estadio Azteca, packed with more than 80,000 spectators, came alive with dazzling lights, fireworks and cultural performances.
Dancers surrounded a giant replica of the World Cup trophy while colourful displays highlighted the rich football heritage of the host nation.
The evening’s biggest moment came when Colombian superstar Shakira joined Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy to perform “Dai Dai,” the tournament’s official anthem.
Their energetic performance drew loud cheers from the crowd and transformed the stadium into a giant celebration ahead of kick-off.
The entertainment continued with appearances from other internationally renowned artists, including Colombian singer J Balvin and celebrated Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli.
Fans inside the stadium described the atmosphere as electric, with many hailing the ceremony as one of the most vibrant World Cup openings in recent memory.
The 2026 tournament, jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada, will feature a record 48 teams competing across 104 matches before the final takes place in New Jersey on July 19.
While celebrations filled the stadium, the atmosphere outside was less orderly. Thousands of supporters converged on Mexico City’s famous Zocalo Square, where an official World Cup fan zone had been established to broadcast the opening match on giant screens.
Overcrowding near entry points led to congestion and frustration among supporters, with security officials struggling to manage the large influx of fans.
Access was further complicated by barriers that had been installed in the area following recent demonstrations by teachers seeking higher wages.
Authorities urged supporters to remain calm as crowds surged toward the entrances. Some frustrated fans reportedly exchanged verbal confrontations with police officers, while others voiced concerns over the organization of the event.
City officials later announced that the fan zone had reached maximum capacity and advised supporters to seek alternative viewing locations across the capital.
The situation also cast uncertainty over plans for Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to attend the public viewing event.
Despite the challenges outside the venue, the opening ceremony successfully captured the excitement surrounding the start of the month-long football festival.
With Burna Boy and Shakira delivering a star-studded performance and thousands of fans embracing the festive atmosphere, the 2026 FIFA World Cup began with a celebration worthy of the world’s biggest sporting event.
