The FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony took place on June 12, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, marking the start of the 23rd edition of the tournament. The event featured a high-energy performance by Colombian singer Shakira, who performed her hit “Dai Dai,” a track specifically created for the occasion. The ceremony also included a poignant moment when Mexican players were visibly moved during the national anthem, highlighting the emotional stakes of the global football spectacle.
Shakira’s Performance: A Global Anthem for the World Cup
Shakira’s performance of “Dai Dai” during the opening ceremony was a focal point of the event. The song, which translates to “Hey Hey” in English, was composed in collaboration with FIFA to reflect the spirit of unity and excitement surrounding the tournament. According to FIFA’s official website, the track was chosen for its infectious rhythm and universal appeal, aiming to resonate with fans across the 152 participating nations. The performance, which included a choreographed routine with dancers, was broadcast to an estimated 2.5 billion viewers worldwide.
The song’s lyrics, which include references to “dancing under the stars” and “singing with the world,” were designed to encapsulate the global nature of the tournament. Shakira, who previously performed at the 2014 and 2018 World Cups, stated in a post-ceremony interview that “this is a celebration of football’s power to bring people together, no matter where they’re from.”
Mexican Players’ Emotional National Anthem Moment
A standout moment of the ceremony occurred during the rendition of Mexico’s national anthem, “Himno Nacional Mexicano.” Players from the Mexican squad, including captain Andrés Guardado and forward Javier Hernández, were seen wiping tears from their eyes as the anthem played. This emotional reaction was captured by multiple cameras and later widely shared on social media platforms.
According to reports from the Mexican Football Federation (FMF), the players were deeply moved by the support of the home crowd, which included over 80,000 fans at MetLife Stadium. FMF president Yon de Luisa later told journalists, “The passion of our fans and the unity of the team are what make this tournament special. Every player feels the weight of the nation on their shoulders, and that moment was a testament to their dedication.”
Key Details of the Opening Ceremony
The ceremony, which lasted approximately 90 minutes, featured a mix of cultural performances, technological displays, and football-related highlights. The event began with a fireworks show that illuminated the New Jersey skyline, followed by a video montage showcasing the history of the World Cup and the 2026 host cities: New York, Los Angeles, and Mexico City.
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One of the most visually striking elements was a 3D light display that transformed the stadium into a giant football pitch. This was achieved using over 10,000 LED panels and drones programmed to form the FIFA logo and the tournament’s official mascot, a lion named “Lionel.” The design was praised by critics for its innovation, with The New York Times calling it “a masterclass in blending technology with tradition.”
Why the Opening Ceremony Matters for the Tournament
The opening ceremony sets the tone for the World Cup, combining cultural pride with the excitement of competition. For the 2026 edition, the event emphasized the tournament’s global reach, with participation from all 152 nations. According to FIFA’s technical director, the ceremony was designed to “highlight the diversity of the participating teams and the shared love for football that transcends borders.”
The emotional moment involving the Mexican players also underscored the personal stakes for athletes. As former World Cup winner and commentator Javier Mascherano noted, “When you hear your national anthem in a stadium filled with thousands of fans, it’s a reminder of why you play the game. It’s not just about the trophies—it’s about representing your country with pride.”
What’s Next for the 2026 World Cup?
The opening ceremony was followed by the first
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