Salma Hayek acts as FIFA 2026 World Cup opening ambassador in Mexico

Mexican actress Salma Hayek served as the official ambassador for the FIFA World Cup 2026 during the opening ceremony at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. She delivered a speech welcoming the 48 qualified nations, saying “¡Qué viva México y que viva el fútbol!” and highlighted the tournament’s joint hosting by Mexico, the United States and Canada.

Hayek appeared in a striking red suit, posed with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, and was joined onstage by a lineup of international musical acts such as Shakira, J Balvin and Los Ángeles Azules. Reactions on social media were mixed: many praised her elegance and role as a cultural bridge, while some critics questioned her Spanish accent and the choice of a Hollywood star for the role.

The ceremony blended sport, music and celebrity, underscoring Mexico’s cultural prominence as one of the three host nations for the 2026 World Cup.