Music, colour and star-studded performances launch World Cup 2026 in styleLast updated: June 12, 2026 | 01:282 MIN READThe FIFA World Cup 2026 got underway in spectacular fashion with a vibrant opening ceremony in Mexico, setting the stage for football’s biggest tournament. AFP1/13Thousands of fans packed the venue as music, culture and sport came together in a dazzling celebration ahead of the opening match. AFP2/13Colombian singer, songwriter and producer Shakira performs during the opening ceremony ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026.AFP3/13Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer Burna Boy performs during the opening ceremony ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026.AFP4/13An artist performs during the opening ceremony ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026.AFP5/13Artists perform during the opening ceremony ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026.AFP6/13Colourful performances, elaborate choreography and a festive atmosphere highlighted the ceremony, marking the start of a month-long football extravaganza.AFP7/13Belinda and Los Angeles Azules perform during the opening ceremony before the match.AP8/13Colombian singer and producer J Balvin performs during the opening ceremony ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026.AFP9/13Artists perform during the opening ceremony ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026.AFP10/13Mexican-American actress Salma Hayek gestures on the pitch before the start of the World Cup Group A soccer match between Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City, AP11/13Mexican and South African flags during the opening ceremony ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026.AFP12/13Colombian singer, songwriter and producer Shakira performs during the opening ceremony ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026.AFP13/13Artists perform during the opening ceremony ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026.AFPAlso In This PackageDevadasan K P is the Chief Visual Editor at Gulf News, bringing more than 27 years of experience in photojournalism to the role. He leads the Visual desk with precision, speed, and a strong editorial instinct.