FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony led by Shakira and Burna Boy

On 12 June 2026 the FIFA World Cup 2026 opened at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca with a spectacular ceremony. Colombian pop star Shakira and Nigerian Afrobeats artist Burna Boy performed the tournament’s official song "Dai Dai" amid fireworks, a giant replica of the World Cup trophy and visual tributes to Mexican culture such as papel picado designs and flag‑colored smoke.

The show also featured many other performers, including Mexican rock band Maná, Belinda, Lila Downs, J Balvin, Danny Ocean, Andrea Bocelli, DJ David Guetta and K‑pop singer Ejae. Separate opening events are planned in Toronto and Los Angeles.

FIFA’s plan for the final’s halftime show has drawn criticism because the stage build‑up and takedown could extend the break to as much as 30 minutes, well beyond the sport’s 15‑minute limit. While the performance itself is slated to last 11 minutes, the extended interval has raised concerns among pundits and officials about rule compliance.