2026 FIFA World Cup Kicks Off with Star-Studded Ceremony in Mexico City

The 2026 FIFA World Cup commenced with a spectacular opening ceremony at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca, setting a festive tone before the inaugural match between Mexico and South Africa. The event was a visual feast, beginning two hours before kickoff, and featured a dazzling array of international and local musical talent.

Global music stars Shakira and Burna Boy performed the tournament's official song, "Dai Dai," electrifying the crowd. They were joined on stage by Mexican rock band Mana, Los Angeles Azules, and pop singer Belinda, creating an unforgettable experience for the thousands of fans in attendance. As the concerts concluded, the stadium's roof was illuminated with smoke bombs in the colors of the Mexican flag, adding to the visual spectacle.

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We are honored to present the official anthem of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, DNA, for the first time before the match.

Mexico achieved a historic milestone with this World Cup, becoming the first nation to host the tournament on three separate occasions, having previously hosted in 1970 and 1986. The Estadio Azteca also entered the record books, becoming the first stadium to host three World Cup opening matches. The tournament's official anthem, "DNA," was performed for the first time by renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli and South Korean singer EJAE, symbolizing themes of resilience, unity, ambition, and belonging, according to FIFA.

Fans filled the 80,000-plus capacity stadium, arriving early due to earlier protests in Mexico City that had caused traffic disruptions. Despite warnings of potential blockades, supporters made their way to the stadium from the early morning hours. The ceremony also paid tribute to football legends Diego Maradona and Pelé, whose images were displayed on the stadium screens. A new pre-match ceremony, recently announced by FIFA, was also implemented, with all players lining up around the center circle before the match.

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The new work reflects the spirit of the World Cup, emphasizing resilience, unity, ambition, and belonging.