The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off this week with an unprecedented triple-opening ceremony format across three host nations — Mexico, Canada and the United States — transforming the tournament into the biggest entertainment-sports crossover event of the year.
Colombian superstar Shakira made history by becoming the first and only artist to perform at four separate FIFA World Cups. Dazzling in a yellow cutout top, patchwork skort and futuristic sunglasses, she delivered an electrifying set at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca, performing the official tournament anthem “Dai Dai” alongside Nigerian singer Burna Boy.
Shakira’s signature hip-swaying choreography and fiery stage presence set the tone for what organizers described as the most ambitious opening ceremony in World Cup history. The Mexico City ceremony also featured performances by Mexican rock band Maná, J Balvin, Belinda, Alejandro Fernández, Los Ángeles Azules and Lila Downs, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the host nation.
In Toronto, Canadian icon Alanis Morrissette headlined the opening ceremony at BMO Field, joined by a lineup of homegrown talent including Alessia Cara, Michael Bublé, Jessie Reyez, Elyanna and Nora Fatehi. The Canadian ceremony celebrated the country’s diverse musical landscape before the national team faced Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The third and most star-studded ceremony took place at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, where Katy Perry closed out the two-day opening extravaganza. Performing her song “Wonder” off her 2024 album “143,” Perry shared the stage with a special guest — 10-year-old Tius from Norway, who recorded his part on the track when he was just five years old.
Perry wore a floor-length silver dress constructed with what appeared to be long strands of tinsel — a nod to Tinseltown, the home of this year’s US matches. The LA ceremony also featured performances by Future, Brazilian pop star Anitta, BLACKPINK’s Lisa, Rema and Tyla, turning SoFi Stadium into a global music festival.
The three-part ceremony format was a first for the World Cup, reflecting the unique tri-nation hosting arrangement for the 2026 tournament. Each ceremony was designed to showcase the culture and traditions of its respective host country, with performances beginning 90 minutes before each scheduled match.
Beyond the stage, the World Cup has become a magnet for celebrity culture. Courtside at the opening matches, stars including Tom Cruise, Paris Hilton and Ryan Reynolds were spotted taking in the action, as the tournament continues to blur the lines between sports and entertainment.
With matches running through July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be as much about the celebrity spectacle and musical performances as it is about the football itself. Fans can expect more star appearances and surprise performances as the tournament progresses across all three host nations.
Sources: Page Six
