The Azteca in Mexico City is set for a legendary 2026 World Cup opening ceremony on June 11, headlined by global star Shakira, ahead of the opening match between Mexico and South Africa.
Shakira leads the show
Four-time Grammy winner Shakira performs the official tournament song "Dai Dai" alongside Nigerian star Burna Boy and South African singer Tyla.
A galaxy of Latin music stars
- J Balvin
- Maná
- Alejandro Fernández
- Belinda and Danny Ocean
- Lila Downs and Los Ángeles Azules
An authentically Mexican look
The ceremony draws its identity from "papel picado", the traditional Mexican craft of cutting intricate designs from coloured tissue paper — a tribute to the host nation's heritage.
Three ceremonies in three nations
For the first time, three opening ceremonies take place across the hosts. Gates open at 9:00, with the ceremony at 11:00 (17:00 GMT) before kick-off.
Who headlines the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony?
Shakira, with Burna Boy and Tyla, plus Latin stars like J Balvin, Maná and Alejandro Fernández.
Follow opening ceremony and 2026 World Cup coverage on Malaab Al-An.