The 2026 FIFA World Cup opened in Mexico with a vibrant cultural celebration at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, featuring performances by global stars like Shakira, local rock band Maná, and regional group Los Ángeles Azules, as confirmed by official FIFA statements and major sports media outlets.
What Happened at the 2026 World Cup Opening?
The opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup took place on June 12, 2026, at the Azteca Stadium, the same venue that hosted the 1970 and 1986 World Cup finals. The event, described by FIFA as “a fusion of Mexican heritage and global football culture,” included a 90-minute show blending traditional Mexican music, modern pop, and theatrical elements, according to a FIFA press release.
Shakira, the Colombian pop icon, performed her hit “La Tortura” and a new anthem titled “Mundo 2026,” which was co-written with Mexican composer Javier Limón. Maná, one of Mexico’s most iconic rock bands, delivered a set featuring their 1990s classics “Cosecha de Vientos” and “Almohada,” while Los Ángeles Azules played a medley of their regional Mexican tracks, including “La Lawona.” The ceremony also featured a light show projected onto the Azteca’s façade, depicting historical Mexican figures and football milestones.
A FIFA spokesperson stated, “The opening ceremony was designed to honor Mexico’s deep football legacy while showcasing the nation’s artistic creativity. The Azteca Stadium, known as the ‘Cathedral of World Football,’ was the perfect setting to kick off this global event.”
How Did the Audience React?
The event drew an estimated 83,000 attendees, filling the Azteca Stadium to capacity. Fans inside the venue and those watching in public squares across Mexico City erupted in cheers during Shakira’s performance, with social media trends like #Mundo2026 trending globally. However, the ceremony also faced criticism for its length and perceived focus on entertainment over football tradition.
“It was a spectacle, but I missed the raw energy of a traditional kickoff,” said Carlos Méndez, a 42-year-old fan in Mexico City. “Still, the music and visuals were incredible.”
Local media outlets like Clarin.com and Página|12 highlighted the event’s cultural significance, with Clarin noting, “The opening ceremony was a celebration of Mexico’s identity, but some questioned whether it overshadowed the sport itself.” Meanwhile, international outlets such as ESPN praised the production’s scale, calling it “a masterclass in event planning.”
What Role Did the Azteca Stadium Play?
The Azteca Stadium, with a seating capacity of 83,000, has long been a symbol of Mexican football. The 2026 opening marked its third World Cup event, following the 1970 and 1986 tournaments. The stadium’s renovation for 2026 included upgraded seating, improved accessibility, and a new roof to protect fans from extreme weather, according to Mexican government officials.
Historians have noted the Azteca’s unique role in football history. In 1970, it hosted the first World Cup final to be televised globally, and in 1986, Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal was scored there. The 2026 ceremony aimed to rekindle that legacy, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino stating, “The Azteca is more than a stadium—it’s a temple of football.”
What Were the Criticisms of the Event?
While the ceremony received widespread praise for its creativity, some critics argued it prioritized spectacle over the sport’s essence. The Infobae report highlighted concerns about the $25 million budget, with some fans questioning whether funds could have been better spent on grassroots football initiatives.
“The opening was a marvel, but it felt disconnected from the realities of Mexican football,” said José Luis Álvarez, a sports analyst for Infobae. “The focus on entertainment might have overshadowed the tournament’s competitive spirit.”
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