Shakira, Burna Boy Ignite 2026 World Cup Opening in Mexico City
Published June 11, 2026
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially commenced with a vibrant opening ceremony in Mexico City, featuring performances by Shakira and Burna Boy, ahead of the host nation's first match against South Africa.
Published — local time around the world
The highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, kicked off in spectacular fashion on Wednesday evening with an electrifying opening ceremony at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Thousands of fans gathered to witness the start of the tournament, which will ultimately feature 48 teams competing across 16 venues throughout June and July 2026.
Colombian superstar Shakira and Nigerian sensation Burna Boy headlined the festivities, delivering dynamic performances that set a celebratory tone for the global football spectacle. Their acts preceded the tournament's inaugural match, pitting one of the host nations, Mexico, against South Africa, drawing immense excitement from the 80,000-capacity crowd.
The atmosphere surrounding Estadio Azteca was reportedly carnival-like, with mariachi bands, fireworks, and traditional Mexican attire contributing to a vibrant street party. Many roads leading to the iconic stadium were closed, requiring fans to walk considerable distances, turning the journey into a festive march filled with music and dancers. Despite the long walk, the mood remained buoyant, with some hopeful attendees even seeking last-minute tickets outside the gates. One dedicated Mexican supporter reportedly spent $4,000 for a seat, expressing that a home victory would make it all worthwhile.