Shakira, Bocelli, K-pop stars light up World Cup 2026 opening in Mexico City

Mexico City's Estadio Azteca vibrated with energy as the World Cup 2026 kicked off with a star-studded opening ceremony on Thursday, June 11. International music sensations Shakira and Andrea Bocelli shared the stage with K-pop performers Ejae, alongside a surprise appearance by actress Salma Hayek.

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A good World Cup song, needs to definitely have rhythm. It has to be rhythmic. It has to make people want to dance. And it has to be an anthem as well. It has to make people want to sing along in unison, sing out loud at the top of their lungs.

Shakira, a veteran of World Cup performances, delivered "Dai Dai," the tournament's official song, in collaboration with Burna Boy. She previously captivated audiences with "Waka Waka (This Time For Africa)" at the 2010 World Cup. Shakira emphasized the importance of rhythm and singalong potential in a successful World Cup anthem, telling The Associated Press, "It has to be rhythmic. It has to make people want to dance."

Mexican artists played a significant role, celebrating the nation's rich cultural tapestry. Lila Downs welcomed the world in Spanish, English, and indigenous languages like Mixtec and Nahuatl, expressing pride in Mexico's diversity. Rock band Mana electrified the stadium with "Oye Mi Amor," and the cumbia group Los Angeles Azules performed "Por Ella" with Belinda, highlighting their roots in the working-class Iztapalapa district.

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People of the world, welcome to Mexico. Mexico welcomes you with smiles from our heart, we are a nation of diversity, heritage and pride in ancestral lands where movement and ritual spirit endure.

The ceremony also included a dynamic performance by J Balvin, who drove a cardboard car during his set. The event preceded Mexico's decisive 2-0 victory over South Africa, setting a vibrant tone for the tournament co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

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It’s a great honour for me to represent my beautiful and diverse country. Of course I’m going to root for Mexico’s team, Viva Mexico!