The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off, marking the start of the biggest tournament in the competition’s history. For the first time, 48 national teams will compete across the United States, Mexico and Canada, with FIFA also hosting three separate opening ceremonies to celebrate each host nation. The celebrations begin in Mexico City before the opening match of the tournament, and include performances by international music stars and a celebration of the cultures that make the World Cup one of the most watched sporting events in the world.
Here’s everything to know about when the FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony starts, where it will be held and how fans can watch it.
When does the FIFA World Cup start?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on Thursday, June 11, 2026, with Mexico taking on host nation South Africa in the opening match of the tournament.
What time is the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup?
The first opening ceremony of the 2026 World Cup is scheduled to begin at 1:30 pm ET on Thursday, June 11, 2026, approximately 90 minutes before the tournament’s opening match between Mexico and South Africa.
Where is the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup held?
The first opening ceremony of the tournament takes place at the Estadio Mexico City (formerly Estadio Azteca) in Mexico City, Mexico, before Mexico’s opening match against South Africa. This iconic stadium makes history as the first stadium ever to host three FIFA World Cup opening matches, having previously done so in 1970 and 1986.
Who will sing at the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup?
The Mexico City concert will feature a star-studded lineup led by… Shakira and Burna was bornwho are scheduled to perform the tournament’s official song, “Dai Dai.” Includes other scheduled performers J Balvin, Tila, Alejandro Fernandez, Mana, Belinda, Danny Ocean, Lily Downs and Los Angeles AzulesTo celebrate Latin American culture and the global nature of the World Cup.
How can you watch the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup?
In the United States, the opening ceremony will be broadcast on FOX in English and Telemundo in Spanish. Streaming options include FOX One, Tubi, Peacock, YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream, allowing fans to watch the festivities live before the first game kicks off.
