Mexico hosts 2026 World Cup opening ceremony with Shakira, Chinese sponsors but no China team

The 2026 FIFA World Cup opened on June 12 in Mexico City, with hosts Mexico defeating South Africa 2‑0 at the historic Estadio Azteca. The opening ceremony featured pop star Shakira and Nigerian artist Burna Boy performing the tournament’s official theme song, while additional acts included J Balvin and Andrea Bocelli. The event was part of a tournament co‑hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada, involving 48 teams and 104 matches, with the final slated for New Jersey.

Chinese companies dominated the commercial side: Lenovo, Hisense, Mengniu and others contributed more than $500 million, roughly a quarter of global sponsorship. The official match ball was manufactured in Shenzhen with a Jiangsu‑made smart chip, and Chinese‑built CRRC light‑rail trains served fans in Mexico City. Chinese referees Ma Ning and Fu Ming were also on the officiating roster. POP MART’s Labubu character, a Chinese‑origin toy IP, appeared on the ceremony stage.

Even though the Chinese national team did not qualify, Chinese netizens joked online, “China everywhere, but no China team on the pitch,” highlighting the contrast between the tournament’s commercial presence and on‑field representation.