The FIFA World Cup 2026 has officially kicked off in Mexico City, with a spectacular opening ceremony at the iconic Azteca stadium featuring global superstars Shakira, Burna Boy, Tyla, J Balvin, Danny Ocean, and Fher Olvera.

Thousands of fans packed the legendary venue — a stadium that last hosted the tournament 40 years ago — draped in Mexico's green and red, ready to witness their nation take centre stage on home soil once more.

The atmosphere was electric from the moment gates opened, with supporter Javier Pérez describing the occasion as one unlike any other. "We were lucky to get hospitality tickets and it's a unique experience. I have never been to a World Cup before so to bring my family is wonderful," he told the BBC. "I just want Mexico to get off on the right foot, win today and score a load of goals! And then we'll see how far we can go!"

A night of colour and culture

The ceremony celebrated Mexico's rich heritage, with performers dressed in indigenous clothing parading through the historic arena alongside others clad in gold, hoisting giant golden footballs high above their heads.

Mexican singer Fernández — son of the beloved veteran vocalist Vicente Fernández — delivered the Mexican national anthem ahead of kick-off. Grammy-winning South African star Tyla, known for her global hit Water and the FIFA tournament anthem Game Time, performed South Africa's national anthem in a moment that resonated with fans across the continent.

Tyla is set to return to the World Cup stage on Friday, joining Katy Perry, Future, Lisa, and Anitta for the United States opening ceremony in Los Angeles.

Co-hosts ready to roll

Mexico is sharing hosting duties for the FIFA World Cup 2026 with the US and Canada. Both of those co-hosts stage their own opening ceremonies on Friday, but Thursday belonged entirely to Mexico as they prepared to face South Africa in the tournament opener.

When the ceremony concluded and the referee's whistle sounded, thousands of sombreros flew into the air — a joyous eruption from a nation that spent weeks navigating a complicated build-up marked by stadium renovations, local protests, and concerns over cartel violence. For one night at least, football swept all of it aside.