Unpacking the music of the World Cup 2026 opening ceremonies 

By Megan Hamilton

For the first time in the history of the World Cup, there are three host countries, and this means we get to witness three opening ceremonies.

While football may not be everyone’s cup of tea, one thing we can all enjoy is music, and Mexico has certainly set the bar high.

Mexico

If you tuned in on Thursday night, you will have seen the joyful display of colour and culture that was the first of three World Cup opening ceremonies.

Held in Mexico City at the Estadio Azteca, many performers stoked the crowd’s excitement before the Mexico and South Africa match.

Headlining Thursday night’s ceremony were Shakira and Burna Boy, performing their official World Cup song ‘Dai Dai’.

Over the years, Shakira has made two official World Cup anthems, ‘Dai Dai’ and ‘Waka Waka (This Time For Africa)’.

This year’s show also marks her fourth World Cup performance, having contributed her impressive vocal and dancing abilities in 2006, 2010, and 2014 as well.

Also included in Thursday’s line-up was Tyla, a South African pop icon known for hits like ‘Water’, who sang South Africa’s national anthem ahead of the game. 

READ MORE: Tyla and Future to perform ‘Game Time’ at the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony

Canada

There’s still more to come on Friday night, of course, as Canada’s opening ceremony is taking place in Toronto, which you can watch at 6:30 pm (BST).

Spotlighting some of the best Canadian artists, among the list of performers are Canada’s sweetheart Michael Bublé and pop-rock icon Alanis Morissette.

USA

Finishing off the celebrations is the final opening ceremony at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium, kicking off on Saturday, June 13, at 12:30 am (BST).

This last hurrah will see names like Katy Perry and Lisa (from KPop group BLACKPINK) take to the pitch to entertain fans.

The latter will be joined by Tyla, who we predict will perform their song ‘When I’m With You’.

Looking forward

Still to come is the final show, where we’ll get to enjoy performances by Madonna, Shakira, and KPop group BTS.

It’s all for a good cause too, as this will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, aiding grassroots football programmes in over 200 countries.

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