The biggest FIFA World Cup in history got off to a glittering start with a grand opening ceremony at the iconic Mexico City Stadium on Thursday night, setting a jubilant tone for the month-long tournament across North America.

The ceremony, held approximately 90 minutes before the opening match between hosts Mexico and South Africa, was a celebration of Mexican culture and the unifying power of football. Gates opened early, allowing fans to enjoy interactive experiences and pre-match entertainment at the historic venue, which is hosting its third FIFA World Cup opening match.

The event featured a rich tapestry of traditional Mexican elements, including vibrant papel picado displays and folkloric artistry, blended with high-energy global performances. Celebrated singers Shakira and Burna Boy delivered the first live performance of the official FIFA World Cup song “Dai Dai”, igniting the crowd with its infectious rhythm. Alejandro Fernández, on the other hand, sang Mexico’s national anthem.

The ceremony fused Latin rhythms, regional Mexican sounds, Afrobeats and pop, creating a charged-up atmosphere to honour the host nation and set the tone for the world’s biggest sporting spectacle. FIFA Ambassador Salma Hayek Pinault added star power with a special welcome message.

Trilogy of celebrations across host nations

Mexico City’s ceremony set the ball rolling for a historic first for the tournament: three dedicated opening celebrations across the co-host nations. The festivities will continue on Friday with opening ceremonies in Toronto ahead of the Canada vs Bosnia and Herzegovina match and in Los Angeles ahead of USA’s match against Paraguay.

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