The opening ceremony of the 2026 World Cup dazzled with international stars at Mexico City’s Stadium on Thursday. Renowned performers like Shakira, Maná, and Andrea Bocelli, alongside a surprise appearance by Salma Hayek, captivated fans ahead of the Mexico vs. South Africa match.
Shakira’s Anthem for the World Cup
Shakira delivered an energetic performance of “Dai Dai,” the official song of the 2026 World Cup, alongside Burna Boy. Known for her unforgettable 2010 World Cup anthem “Waka Waka (This Is Africa),” Shakira aims for a similar impact with “Dai Dai.” She emphasized the need for a World Cup song to be rhythmic and anthem-like, inspiring collective chanting and dancing.
Shakira has a rich history of performing at World Cups, including appearances in Germany 2006, South Africa 2010, and Brazil 2014. She will also take part in the first World Cup final halftime show on July 19 at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium with Madonna and BTS.
A Welcoming Ceremony
Lila Downs warmly welcomed fans and players in Spanish, English, Mixtec, and Nahuatl languages. Wearing a traditional white huipil with purple trim, Downs highlighted the diversity, heritage, and pride of Mexico.
A native of Tlaxiaco, Oaxaca, Downs has a personal connection to Mexico through her indigenous Mixtec roots. She expressed her support for the Mexican national team and her honor in representing her country.
Maná and Los Angeles Azules Rock the Stage
Fans enthusiastically sang along as Maná performed their hit song “Oye mi amor” amidst pre-Hispanic dancers. Known for selling over 40 million albums worldwide, Maná will tour Latin American stadiums, including stops in Bogotá, Lima, Santiago, Buenos Aires, and Mexico City.
The Mexican cumbia group Los Ángeles Azules performed “Por Ella” with Belinda. Originating from Iztapalapa, Mexico City’s working-class district, the group emphasizes their local pride with the motto “From Iztapalapa to the World.”
Dynamic Performances by J Balvin and Danny Ocean
J Balvin energized the audience, starting his set with “Qué calor” and collaborating with Ryan Castro on “Una a la vez,” ending with “I Like It.” With global stage experience, including a Super Bowl halftime show, Balvin is a reggaeton icon.
Danny Ocean performed “Partidazo” for the FIFA 2026 Album, accompanied by dancers in modernized traditional Jalisco dresses. Two small dolls wearing World Cup jerseys appeared after his performance.
Hollywood Presence
Salma Hayek delivered a brief welcome speech during the flag parade, representing the 48 participating countries. Proud of Mexico’s role in hosting the World Cup, she celebrated the unifying power of football.
Hayek, a passionate football fan, serves as an ambassador for the 2026 World Cup and has connections to the sport through her husband’s family, owners of a Ligue 1 team.
Opera and K-pop Unite
Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and South Korean star EJAE performed “DNA,” the official FIFA 2026 anthem, with David Guetta at the flag parade. Bocelli recently performed for 130,000 fans in Mexico City’s Zócalo, while EJAE is known for her role in “KPop Demon Hunters.”
National Anthems by Tyla and Alejandro Fernández
Tyla and Alejandro Fernández sang the national anthems of South Africa and Mexico, respectively, before the match. Tyla, a Grammy-winning African artist, and Fernández, a star in regional Mexican music, contributed to the event’s cultural richness.
The Associated Press reporters Maria Sherman and Mallika Sen contributed from New York.
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