The 2026 World Cup kicked off with a ceremony at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca that was as much a fashion statement as a musical celebration. Shakira, J Balvin, and Belinda led a lineup of artists who turned the pitch into a runway, each outfit carefully chosen to reflect personal style and cultural pride. The result was a visual feast that set the tone for the tournament.
Shakira's Yellow Statement
Shakira, who has a long history with World Cup performances—from her 2010 anthem "Waka Waka" to her 2022 halftime show—chose a bold yellow ensemble for the opening. The asymmetrical mesh bodysuit and short skirt with graphic details blended sporty energy with high fashion, capturing the festive spirit of the event. Her look immediately connected with the crowd, reinforcing her role as a global ambassador for Latin music and style. For more on her World Cup journey, see Shakira's World Cup Journey: From 'Waka Waka' to Halftime History.
J Balvin, the Colombian reggaeton star, made a striking impression with a red shirt paired with light green pants and a white tie. The oversize silhouette was a direct nod to the host country's flag, a gesture that resonated with the Mexican audience and viewers across the Americas. His appearance came amid a busy period—he recently revived a 90s classic with WestCol and Ovy On The Drums in "Godzila" (read more: J Balvin, WestCol, and Ovy On The Drums Revive a 90s Classic with 'Godzila').
Belinda's Pop-Cumbia Fusion
Belinda, the Mexican-Spanish singer, brought a youthful edge to the ceremony. She wore a pink corset top with sparkles and long sleeves, paired with denim pants. The outfit merged her pop sensibility with the cumbia rhythms of Los Ángeles Azules, with whom she performed. It was a perfect balance of contemporary and traditional, reflecting her ability to move between genres and generations. Belinda has also been making headlines for her voice work in Toy Story 5 (see Belinda Brings a Tablet's Heart to Toy Story 5 as Lilypad).
The ceremony also featured Lila Downs and Fher Olvera of Maná. Downs honored indigenous roots with textures and colors inspired by Mexico's original cultures, while Olvera brought rock energy in a long red leather jacket with metallic details. Their presence underscored the diversity of Latin American music, from folk to rock to pop.
This opening ceremony was a reminder that the World Cup is more than a sporting event—it's a cultural moment where fashion, music, and identity converge. The artists' bold choices, from Shakira's yellow to J Balvin's tricolor homage, made the night unforgettable. As the tournament unfolds, expect style to remain a key part of the conversation.
