The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off on Thursday evening with co-hosts Mexico taking on South Africa in the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, launching a sprawling tournament of 48 teams that will last nearly six weeks.
The tournament is projected to generate a record-breaking $13 billion (€11 billion) in total revenue.
The hosts took an early lead in the ninth minute with Julián Quiñones, after he was set up by Érik Lira who pounced on a mistake by the South African defence. The stadium erupted in celebration, with Mexico subsequently maintaining pressure on their opponents for the rest of the first half before extending their lead in the second through a header by veteran striker Raúl Jiménez.
The official opening ceremony lit up the Estadio Azteca stadium before the kickoff with Colombian superstar Shakira and Nigerian singer Burna Boy delighting the crowd with a performance of "Dai Dai," the official song of the tournament.
Legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and K-pop star EJAE also took the stage during the opening ceremony.
