Mexico: The World Cup has officially kicked off in Mexico City, marking the start of football’s biggest tournament with a colourful opening ceremony at the iconic Azteca Stadium. Thousands of supporters filled the venue, creating a festive atmosphere as Mexico hosted a World Cup match on home soil for the first time in four decades.
Fans were treated to a star-studded entertainment programme before the opening match. Colombian singer Shakira headlined the performances, joined by J Balvin, Burna Boy and Danny Ocean. Mexican singer-songwriter Fher Olvera of Maná also took to the stage to perform the popular song Oye Mi Amor.
The ceremony celebrated Mexico’s cultural heritage through music, dance and traditional costumes. Performers wore indigenous-inspired clothing, while others carried giant golden footballs as part of the spectacle. A welcome message highlighted the country’s diversity, heritage and pride, while emphasising football’s ability to unite generations.
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Opera singer Andrea Bocelli and K-pop artist Ejae performed the tournament’s official anthem, DNA, which was released earlier this week. Mexican singer Alejandro Fernández led the national anthem, with tens of thousands of supporters joining in from the stands. South African artist Tyla performed South Africa’s national anthem ahead of the opening match.
The football action quickly followed the celebrations as Mexico opened its World Cup campaign with a 2-0 victory over South Africa. Supporters inside the stadium responded with loud celebrations as the host nation secured a winning start.
While festivities dominated the day, authorities also dealt with security challenges outside the stadium. Mexican officials reported that a group of protesters clashed with law enforcement, temporarily affecting nearby metro services. Authorities stated that the situation was later brought under control.
Separate demonstrations involving teachers and families searching for relatives missing in Mexico’s drug war also took place, drawing attention to ongoing social issues while the country remained in the international spotlight.
Mexico is co-hosting the World Cup alongside the United States and Canada, with both nations scheduled to hold their own opening celebrations. FIFA has also brought together a range of global artists for ceremonies connected to the tournament, many of whom appear on the official World Cup album.
As the World Cup moves into its opening round of matches, attention will now shift to the action on the pitch, with host nations Mexico, the United States and Canada preparing to welcome millions of fans throughout the tournament.
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