BY SANDHYA DISSANAYAKE, ATTORNEY-AT-LAW
Image Courtesy: BBC News
Mexico City – The FIFA World Cup 2026 officially got underway in spectacular fashion as global music icons Shakira and Burna Boy delivered a thrilling performance during the opening ceremony at the iconic Azteca Stadium on Thursday, setting the stage for football’s biggest tournament.
Ahead of the opening match between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, more than 80,000 spectators witnessed a colourful celebration featuring music, dance, fireworks and cultural performances at one of football’s most historic venues.
The renovated Azteca Stadium, famous for hosting the FIFA World Cup finals in 1970 and 1986, once again became the centre of the football world as the expanded 48-team tournament officially began.
The highlight of the ceremony came when Colombian superstar Shakira joined Nigerian sensation Burna Boy to perform “Dai Dai,” the official anthem of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, drawing massive cheers from fans packed inside the stadium.
The entertainment lineup also featured performances from Latin music star J Balvin and renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, adding further glamour to the opening celebrations before kickoff.
Adding to the visual spectacle, dancers performed around a giant replica of the FIFA World Cup trophy while fireworks illuminated the night sky, creating a memorable start to the month-long global event.
Fans inside the stadium described the atmosphere as electric, with celebrations beginning well before the opening whistle.
“It’s already a party in Mexico. It’s amazing,” one supporter said as excitement reached fever pitch.
However, while celebrations continued inside the stadium, chaotic scenes unfolded at the official FIFA Fan Zone in Mexico City’s Zócalo Plaza.
Thousands of supporters attempting to enter the venue crowded against security barriers, leading to pushing, congestion and frustration among fans hoping to watch the opening match on giant screens.
Authorities had installed additional metal barriers in recent days following protests by teachers demanding salary increases, which complicated access to the fan zone.
Officials repeatedly urged supporters to remain calm as some fans expressed their frustration by throwing water bottles and chanting in support of the Mexican national team.
The local government later announced that the fan zone had reached full capacity and advised spectators to gather at alternative public viewing locations across the city.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks the first edition to feature 48 participating nations, with matches being played across Mexico, the United States and Canada over 39 days.
A total of 104 matches will be contested before the tournament concludes with the grand final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 19 July, where the world’s next football champion will be crowned.
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