Mexican actress Salma Hayek Pinault took to the Azteca Stadium lawn this Thursday (11) to officially welcome the public present at the opening ceremony of the 2026 World Cup. As ambassador of the tournament, the Hollywood star represented the spirit of football unity in an event that marks the beginning of the most extensive competition in history.
The ceremony in Mexico is the first of the three official openings of the World Cup, a novelty in the 2026 format. The Azteca, which already hosted finals in 1970 and 1986, is having its third experience as a venue for World Cup games after renovation. The opening game will be Mexico x South Africa, repeating the 2010 debut match.
Ceremony brings together stars of music and culture
In addition to Salma Hayek’s speech, the stage featured performances by Shakira, Burna Boy, J Balvin, Belinda, Lila Downs, Alejandro Fernández and other artists. The event started around 90 minutes before kickoff, with the public actively participating in the activations prepared by FIFA.
Hayek’s selection as ambassador reinforces the connection between global entertainment and sport. Mexican by origin, the actress born in Coatzacoalcos has participated in FIFA events and now occupies a central position in the biggest edition of the tournament, with 48 teams divided into 12 groups and 104 games in total.
What changes with the new format
For the first time, the World Cup will have venues in three countries — Mexico, Canada and the United States — and separate opening ceremonies in each nation. The one in Mexico paves the way for those in Toronto and Los Angeles, which take place this Friday (12). This structure aims to distribute the celebration and economic impact among the host countries.
The Azteca Stadium received a large crowd despite the forecast of rain. Brazilian refereeing, led by Wilton Pereira Sampaio, debuts in the initial clash. The tournament runs until July, with the final scheduled for New Jersey.
Salma Hayek, known internationally for roles in films such as “Frida” and Hollywood productions, used her speech to highlight the power of football in bringing different cultures together. Your participation symbolizes the mix of glamour, Latin representation and passion for sport that defines this expanded edition.
