2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremonies explained: Performers, start times and streaming details - All you need to know

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will have three opening ceremonies. These interconnected ceremonies will be staged across Mexico, Canada and the US.

Updated on: Jun 10, 2026, 09:47:07 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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After four years of anticipation, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is almost here. Defending champions Argentina are back to retain the trophy, and so is Lionel Messi. This will also be Cristiano Ronaldo's last chance to bag a maiden world title. The tournament is being co-hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada. The US hosted the tournament in 1994, and Mexico hosted it in 1970 and 1986. Meanwhile, this will be Canada's first time hosting the tournament.

Shakira will perform during the Mexican FIFA World Cup opening ceremony. (AP Photo/Charles Sykes)

Three interconnected opening ceremonies

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will have three opening ceremonies. These interconnected ceremonies will be staged across Mexico, Canada and the US. They will have a common theme, shared by the co-hosts. Each opening ceremony will begin 90 minutes before the host team's tournament opener.

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The ceremonies are being produced by Marco Balich, who is also the creative director behind several Olympic opening ceremonies.

"The FIFA World Cup is a moment the world shares, and that begins with how we open it," said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

"Starting with Mexico City and continuing the next days with Toronto and Los Angeles, these ceremonies will bring together music, culture and football in a way that reflects both the individuality of each nation and the unity that defines this tournament. It is a powerful way to begin a truly global celebration."

Mexico's 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony

Mexico will host the first of three opening ceremonies. As co-hosts, they face South Africa in the tournament opener, in a rematch of the 2010 World Cup. The opening ceremony will begin at 10:30 PM IST on June 11, and the match will take place at 12:30 AM IST on June 12.

The first opening ceremony will take place at the historic Estadio Azteca.

At the opening ceremony in Mexico, Shakira will be the star attraction, headlining the show and performing 'Dai Dai', the tournament's official song, alongside Nigerian artist Burna Boy.

South African singer-songwriter Tyla and Colombian singer J Balvin are also among the performers. Even Mexican singers Alejandro Fernandez, Lila Downs and Belinda will perform, and so will Danny Ocean. Mexican pop band Mana and musical group Los Angeles Azules have also been lined up for the opening ceremony.

Canada and the US's 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremonies

Meanwhile, the Canadian opening ceremony will take place on June 12, 11:00 PM IST in Toronto, before the country's opener vs Bosnia and Herzegovina. There will be musical performances from Alanis Morissette, Alessia Cara, Elyanna, Jessie Reyez, Michael Buble, Nora Fatehi, Sanjoy, Vegedream and William Prince.

The US opening ceremony will take place on June 13, 5:00 AM at the Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood. After that, the US team will face Paraguay in their opener.

Live telecast and streaming

Where to watch the live telecast of the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremonies in India?

The live telecast of the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremonies in India will be available on Unite8 Sports television channels.

Where to watch the live streaming of the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremonies in India?

The live streaming of the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremonies in India will be available on Zee5.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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