Colombian superstar Shakira and Nigerian Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy thrilled fans during the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the historic Estadio Azteca on Thursday before the tournament opener between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa.
The 80,000-capacity stadium, which previously hosted the World Cup finals in 1970 and 1986, provided a colourful backdrop as dancers performed around a giant replica of the World Cup trophy while fireworks lit up the sky.
The highlight of the ceremony came when Shakira and Burna Boy took to the stage to perform “Dai Dai”, the official song of the 2026 World Cup. Their performance sparked loud cheers from supporters packed inside the stadium ahead of kickoff.
The expanded 48-team tournament is being jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada. A total of 104 matches will be played, with the final scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium.
While celebrations filled Estadio Azteca, scenes outside the stadium were less orderly. Thousands of fans gathered at the official World Cup fan zone in Zócalo, where overcrowding led to pushing and congestion as supporters attempted to gain entry before the opening match.
Access to the fan zone was restricted by metal barriers that had been installed in recent days following demonstrations by teachers demanding higher wages.
Officials repeatedly appealed for calm as crowds surged toward the entrances.
“Stop pushing and shoving, there are children here,” one city official shouted through a megaphone while trying to manage the growing crowd.
Some frustrated supporters threw water bottles and exchanged insults with police officers, while others continued chanting in support of the Mexican national team.
“It’s crazy. There could have been better organisation,” said Javier Maciel, a 25-year-old fan attempting to enter the viewing area.
Local authorities later announced on social media that the fan zone had reached full capacity and encouraged supporters to watch matches from alternative public locations across the city.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum had been expected to attend the fan zone, although her presence became uncertain amid the ongoing protests in the area.
The opening match between Mexico and South Africa marks the beginning of a month-long tournament that will culminate with the World Cup final in New Jersey on July 19.
