The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off on Thursday in spectacular fashion, with stunning performances by Shakira, Andrea Bocelli, EJAE and more. Much to my surprise, Salma Hayek also appeared on stage.
Highlights of the FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony
The Colombian singer-songwriter and dancer took center stage to sing his song ‘.Claim Claim‘ with Burna Boy. How was it? Completely break!
A video of Shakira dancing with a bodyguard also went viral on social media.
Shakira had a fun time after her performance at the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, continuing to dance as security tried to escort her off the field. pic.twitter.com/CGulfszI2P
– Pop Core (@TheePopCore) June 11, 2026
As many know, Shakira is no stranger to the World Cup stage, having previously performed at the tournament in 2006, 2010, and 2014. She is also set to perform at the first ever World Cup semi-final show alongside BTS and Madonna in July.
Legendary Mexican rock legend Maná gave a spectacular performance, complete with dancers inspired by pre-Hispanic cultures.
🏆⚽️🔥 Famous Maná launching the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup 2026 🌎🎤
Clean energy on the biggest stage in football! 🎶🔥 pic.twitter.com/3C82lXSi6u
– Ananda Nepali (@anandanepali99) June 11, 2026
Then comes J. Balvin, who delivered a power set that included ‘What a heat,”One At A Time‘ by Ryan Castro, and’I love it.’
J BALVIN at the opening of the 2026 FIFA World Cup from Mexico City 🇲🇽⚽️🏆 pic.twitter.com/PINXibDV1t
– MUSICTRENDS Colombia (@musictrendscol) June 11, 2026
Venezuelan singer Danny Ocean performed Celebrationbacked by dancers wearing modern versions of Jalisco’s traditional costumes.
The ceremony also featured a powerful rendition of the competition song’DNA‘ by Andrea Bocelli and South Korean singer EJAE, joined by French DJ David Guetta during the flag parade.
What about the match?
In the opening match of the FIFA World Cup, Mexico beat South Africa 2-0, while South Korea beat Czechia 2-1.
Who’s next?
Canada will face Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar, and Switzerland in Group B of the FIFA World Cup. Are you excited? We bet you’re not the only one!
ALSO READ | BTS to perform at the final halftime show of the 2026 FIFA World Cup; Exciting details inside
