The 2026 FIFA World Cup will officially kick off on June 11, marking the beginning of what organizers describe as the largest tournament in the history of the sport. The event, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada for the first time, will feature 48 teams competing across 104 matches in 16 host cities.
Three Nations, Three Ceremonies
For the first time in World Cup history, each host nation will stage its own opening ceremony 90 minutes before their tournament opener. The interconnected celebrations share a common theme while showcasing each country’s unique cultural identity.
The first ceremony takes place on June 11 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where Mexico will face South Africa in the tournament opener—a rematch of the 2010 World Cup. Shakira will headline the event, performing the official tournament song “Dai Dai” alongside Nigerian artist Burna Boy. Additional performers include Alejandro Fernández, J Balvin, Lila Downs, Maná, and South African singer Tyla.
Mexico City authorities declared June 11 a public holiday for the opening ceremony. The stadium, which has hosted two previous World Cup opening matches, becomes the first venue to stage three tournament openers.
The second ceremony follows on June 12 in Toronto at BMO Field, where Canada takes on Bosnia and Herzegovina in the country’s first World Cup match on home soil. Canadian performers include Michael Bublé, Alanis Morissette, Alessia Cara, and Jessie Reyez.
The third and final ceremony occurs on June 13 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, preceding the United States match against Paraguay. Pop star Katy Perry will headline the U.S. ceremony, joined by rapper Future, Anitta, LISA, Rema, and Tyla.
Record-Breaking Scale
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the three ceremonies as “a powerful way to begin a truly global celebration.” The productions are being orchestrated by Marco Balich, who previously served as creative director for the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony.
The tournament will feature a record 1,248 players representing their nations. Combined live attendance across the three opening venues is expected to reach approximately 200,000 spectators, with broadcast audiences in the tens of millions worldwide.
The final is scheduled for July 19 in New York.