Football’s biggest event returns with a historic edition that will redefine the World Cup. For the first time, 48 teams will compete for the trophy, while three countries – the United States, Canada and Mexico – will share hosting duties in 16 cities.
The festival kicks off in Mexico City, where a spectacular opening ceremony is expected to showcase the host country’s culture, music and football spirit. Fans will also look forward to performances by international music stars Shakira and Burna Boy, who are set to perform the official anthem of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The opening ceremony marks the beginning of a month-long football festival that will feature 104 matches and countless stories. From Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo possibly appearing in their last World Cup to the emergence of new global stars, the tournament promises unforgettable moments.
After the celebrations are over, attention will turn to the pitch as Mexico take on South Africa in the opening match of the 2010 World Cup. Afterwards, the two teams played out a memorable 1-1 draw in Johannesburg. Sixteen years later, they met again on the opening night of another World Cup.
Mexico will be looking to make the most of home advantage and start their campaign with a win, while South Africa will be hoping to spoil the party and make an early statement.
Throughout the evening, we’ll bring you every major development from inside the stadium, including event highlights, celebrity appearances, fan reactions, team news, warm-ups, tactical insights and live updates from the opening match.
Stay tuned as football’s grandest stage comes alive and the journey to crown the FIFA World Cup 2026 champions officially begins.
