Salma Hayek welcomes world at opening of 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico City

Mexican actress Salma Hayek delivered a welcome address at the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, held at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. In her speech she greeted the 48 qualified nations and highlighted Mexico’s co‑hosting role alongside the United States and Canada, saying “Viva México!” and “Let football live.”

Hayek appeared in a red outfit with a Gucci blouse and was filmed holding the tournament trophy together with FIFA president Gianni Infantino. The ceremony also featured performances by Shakira, J Balvin and Belinda, underscoring the event’s Latin‑American cultural showcase. The opening match pitted the host nation Mexico against South Africa, marking the first World Cup match on the historic ground that previously hosted the 1970 and 1986 tournaments.