The 2026 World Cup begins this Thursday, June 11, at 11:30 AM local time, with an opening ceremony at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca. The iconic venue, which hosted the finals in 1970 and 1986, will set the stage for a celebration that blends music, soccer, and cultural pride. The ceremony runs ninety minutes before the inaugural match between Mexico and South Africa at 1:00 PM.
FIFA has designed a visual spectacle inspired by papel picado, the traditional Mexican folk art of cut-paper banners. The colorful, intricate patterns will welcome fans from across the globe, reflecting the craftsmanship and joy that define Mexican culture. The stadium itself holds deep significance for Latino soccer fans, having witnessed Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" goal in 1986 and Pelé's final World Cup triumph in 1970.
Stars Lighting Up the Azteca Stage
Shakira leads the musical lineup, performing "Dai Dai," the official tournament anthem she co-wrote with Nigerian artist Burna Boy. The Colombian superstar, a global icon who has long bridged Latin and pop audiences, will be joined by a diverse roster of talent: J Balvin, Maná, Belinda, Los Ángeles Azules, Alejandro Fernández, and South African singer Tyla. This mix of genres—from reggaeton to rock en español to cumbia—ensures the ceremony resonates across generations and borders.
Actress Salma Hayek, a longtime ambassador for the tournament, will add a touch of Hollywood elegance. Alejandro Fernández and Tyla will sing their respective national anthems, closing the artistic segment with a nod to the unity between Mexico and South Africa—the two nations that open the tournament. The ceremony also nods to the growing influence of Latin music globally, as seen in the recent Panini sticker treatment for reggaeton stars that went viral among fans.
A Solemn Tribute to the Giants of the Pitch
Beyond the music, the ceremony will pause to honor Diego Maradona and Pelé, two legends whose careers are forever tied to Estadio Azteca. Maradona captained Argentina to the 1986 title on this very pitch, while Pelé won his third World Cup there in 1970. The tribute will feature special appearances by Brazilian icon Roberto Rivellino and Italian legend Gianni Rivera, both of whom played in those historic finals.
This moment of reflection connects the tournament's past to its present, reminding fans that the spirit of these idols continues to pulse through every World Cup. For many Latino fans, Maradona and Pelé represent more than athletic achievement—they embody the passion and resilience of their communities. The ceremony's emotional weight is amplified by the stadium's role as a sacred site for soccer lovers across the Americas.
How to Watch the Ceremony in the United States
For viewers in the United States, the entire ceremony will air live on TelevisaUnivision (TUDN), which offers comprehensive coverage in Spanish. Fans can also stream the event through digital platforms that carry these channels, including the Univision app and various streaming services. The broadcast begins at 11:30 AM ET/8:30 AM PT, so set your alarms early.
The 2026 World Cup is historic for its three-nation hosting format—Mexico, the United States, and Canada—and this opening ceremony marks the first of three distinct celebrations. The split format reflects the tournament's ambition to reach diverse audiences, but for many, the Azteca ceremony remains the emotional heart of the event. As Latino stars have built MLS and now lead World Cup 2026, this ceremony underscores the region's enduring influence on global soccer.
Whether you're watching from a living room in Los Angeles, a bar in Bogotá, or a plaza in Buenos Aires, the opening ceremony promises to be a celebration of Latino culture, music, and the beautiful game. Don't miss it.
