The FIFA World Cup 2026 officially got underway in dazzling fashion on Thursday as music, culture and football combined to launch the biggest tournament in the competition’s history at the iconic Estadio Azteca.
Fans from around the world packed the historic stadium in Mexico City for a vibrant opening ceremony featuring global music stars Shakira, Andrea Bocelli, J Balvin and Burna Boy. The event showcased colorful costumes, elaborate choreography and cultural performances celebrating both the host nation and the global reach of football.
The ceremony marked the beginning of a historic World Cup jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada — the first tournament to feature 48 teams and the largest edition of the competition ever staged.
Estadio Azteca, already one of football’s most revered venues, added another chapter to its storied legacy by becoming the first stadium to host three FIFA World Cup opening matches. Thousands of supporters arrived hours before kickoff, creating a carnival atmosphere around the venue as anticipation built for the month-long tournament.
Following the entertainment spectacle, attention turned to the football as hosts Mexico faced South Africa in the opening fixture. The roar inside the stadium reached fever pitch during the national anthems, with Mexican fans providing a thunderous backdrop.
The tournament’s first goal arrived in the ninth minute when Julián Quiñones found the net to spark celebrations among the home supporters. The early strike added to the festive atmosphere as Mexico looked to begin its campaign on a positive note.
Beyond the opening match, the day represented the start of a tournament expected to attract billions of viewers worldwide. FIFA has planned three separate opening ceremonies across the host nations, highlighting the diverse cultures and musical traditions of North America while celebrating the unifying power of the world’s most popular sport.
From the performances on stage to the passion in the stands, the opening day delivered a fitting introduction to a World Cup that promises unforgettable moments over the coming weeks.
With the eyes of the football world fixed on Mexico City, the FIFA World Cup 2026 officially began with a celebration worthy of the global spectacle it has become.