The Azteca Stadium, in Mexico City, will host the kickoff of the 2026 World Cup this Thursday (11). The iconic Mexican stage will host the opening game between the teams of Mexico and South Africa, at 4pm (Brasília time), and an opening ceremony full of music and local culture.
FIFA prepared a show lasting around 90 minutes before the match. The show celebrates Mexican heritage through traditional and contemporary rhythms, with dance and artistic manifestations that represent the identity of the host country. Among the confirmed artists are Shakira (who performs the official anthem “Dai Dai” alongside Burna Boy), Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, Danny Ocean, J Balvin, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, Maná and Tyla.
The Azteca will become the first stadium in the world to host three World Cup opening ceremonies, repeating the role it played in 1970 and 1986. This milestone reinforces the historic weight of the tournament for Mexico, which opens the competition at home before smaller ceremonies in the other host countries, Canada and the United States.
The 2026 edition will be the biggest in history: 48 teams, 104 games and 16 host cities spread across the three host countries. The final is scheduled for July 19, at MetLife Stadium, in New York–New Jersey.
Preparations and context in Mexico City
In the last few hours, protests by teachers and other social groups blocked access near the stadium, but authorities guarantee that security is reinforced and the event will take place normally. President Claudia Sheinbaum called for peaceful demonstrations and confirmed that the opening game will be played without interruptions.
The Azteca, with a capacity for around 87 thousand fans, underwent recent renovations that included new seats, VIP areas and infrastructure improvements to host the World Cup.
What the event represents
The opening in Mexico highlights the passion for football in Latin America and the region’s ability to organize major events. Unlike previous World Cups, the division into three host countries allows each nation to have its initial moment of celebration, expanding the symbolic reach of the tournament.
The show not only launches the competition’s official album but also unites generations of fans through artists from different Latin and global styles. For Mexicans, it’s the chance to relive the excitement of 1970 and 1986 in a legendary stadium.
The ball rolls right after the show, with Mexico looking to get off to a good start against South Africa in a Group A that promises balance.