MEXICO CITY — The eyes of the world were on Mexico today as the FIFA World Cup 2026™ began with an Opening Ceremony that offered a celebration full of sound, colour and meaning.
As the host of the Opening Match, Mexico held the first in a trio of opening ceremonies that will continue across Canada and the United States. Produced in creative partnership with Balich Wonder Studio, it reimagined the FIFA World Cup™ Trophy through the lens of Mexico’s culture – a thread that will run through each of the three ceremonies. In Mexico, this concept was brought to life through the intricate and celebratory art of papel picado, a powerful symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and joy.
The ceremony featured music, dance and artistry, with contributions from some of the most exciting voices in global music. The star names who brought to life the sound of the Official FIFA World Cup 2026™ Album included Shakira, Burna Boy, Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, Danny Ocean, J Balvin, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, Maná and Tyla.
LABUBU, the beloved characters from global entertainment IP brand POP MART, also made a surprise appearance at the FIFA World Cup opening ceremony as special guests.
For both the spectators inside the Mexico City Stadium and the global television audience, the mix of indigenous talent and modern folkloric performers proved a powerful way to kick off this World Cup finals tournament. The ceremony also featured a parade of flags of the competing nations and concluded with an explosion of fireworks as the long wait for the FIFA World Cup 2026 finally came to an end.
Images from Mexico City’s Opening Ceremony
Shakira stars again
A vision in gold
Stunning choreography
Dazzling dance performances
Fireworks set the tone
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