The 2026 World Cup begins tonight across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Football returns to the global stage with a huge opening ceremony ahead of Mexico's Group A clash against South Africa in Mexico City. The event takes place at the Estadio Banorte next Thursday, June 11, and will be headlined by Shakira and Burna Boy, who will perform 'Dai Dai', the official World Cup 2026 song, for the first time live.
Performances and Cultural Celebration
The ceremony will also celebrate the best of Latin American talent. FIFA stated, 'In Mexico, this concept is brought to life through the intricate and celebratory art of "papel picado", a powerful symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and joy.' Mexican band Mana will perform, alongside Alejandro Fernandez, Colombian J Balvin, Belinda, Danny Ocean, Lila Downs, Los Angeles Azules, and Tyla.
Two other ceremonies will occur for the remaining host nations when Canada and the US play their first group matches against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Paraguay the following day.
Canada's Ceremony
Canada's ceremony comes next on Friday, June 12, at BMO Field in Toronto. Jessie Reyez and Palestinian singer Elyanna will perform, with Michael Buble headlining the evening's pre-match entertainment. Nora Fatehi, Alanis Morissette, Alessia Cara, William Prince, DJ Sanjoy, and Vegedream complete the line-up. FIFA president Gianni Infantino hailed it as a 'powerful reflection of Canada's identity.'
United States Ceremony
Later that day, in Los Angeles, California, the US takes centre stage as Katy Perry, Future, and Tyla all perform at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. K-pop band Blackpink will be joined by Brazilian Anitta and Nigerian Rema. Infantino said, 'The lineup of artists reflects the cultural diversity of the United States and the vibrancy of its many diasporas, highlighting the nation's rich influence on music, entertainment, and pop culture.'
World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony Start Time
The first opening ceremony is set to start at 6:30 pm BST, which is 1:30 pm local time in Mexico City. The next is also at 6:30 pm BST the following day (1:30 pm local time in Toronto), and the LA show begins at 3:30 am BST (7:30 pm local time in California).
Opening Match
The tournament kicks off with the opening game, where co-hosts Mexico take on South Africa at 8 pm BST on Friday, June 11, 2026, at the Estadio Banorte in Mexico City.
Closing Ceremony
A closing ceremony is yet to be confirmed. Madonna, Shakira, and K-pop superstars BTS will headline the first-ever World Cup final half-time show.
