Mexico City Hosts World Cup Opening

Mexico City Hosts World Cup Opening

Mexico City commenced its hosting duties for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday, June 13, with an opening ceremony at the Azteca Stadium. The event featured performances by global music artists, including Shakira, marking the first time in 40 years that Mexico has hosted a World Cup match on home soil.

The ceremony preceded Mexico's initial match against South Africa. Performers wore indigenous attire and other elaborate costumes, while fans filled the stadium, many dressed in Mexico's national colors. The event highlighted local culture and generated significant fan engagement, with thousands throwing sombreros into the air as the match began.

Mexico is co-hosting the 2026 tournament alongside the United States and Canada. The U.S. and Canada are scheduled to hold their respective opening ceremonies on Friday, June 14. The Mexico City event focused on the initial festivities for the tournament's North American leg.