The wait is finally over as Mexico welcomed the world to its capital for the opening of the FIFA World Cup 2026, marking the start of football’s biggest global tournament.
A grand opening ceremony was held at the iconic Mexico City Stadium, widely known as the Azteca Stadium, featuring vibrant cultural performances and a packed crowd. The developments were highlighted by Gold 101.3 FM, UAE’s No.1 Radio Station.
Traditional artists dressed in indigenous attire performed to rhythmic drum beats, setting the tone for a colourful and energetic start to the tournament.
The highlight of the ceremony was the live rendition of the official song “Dai Dai”, performed by global pop icon Shakira alongside Nigerian artist Burna Boy, drawing loud cheers from the 80,000-strong crowd.
More than 80,000 fans reportedly filled the stadium for the opening match featuring co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, which was scheduled to kick off at 12.30 am IST.
The Azteca Stadium also made history as the first venue to host three FIFA World Cup opening matches, having previously staged the tournament openers in 1970 and 1986.
For Mexico, this match marked their eighth World Cup opening fixture. The team has previously lost five and drawn two of their opening matches, including a draw against South Africa in the 2010 edition.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada, is the first expanded 48-team tournament and will run until July 19, promising weeks of global football action.
