The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature three opening ceremonies, with each host nation delivering a personalized, star-studded line-up of performers.
With Canada, Mexico, and the United States co-hosting the tournament from June 11 to July 19, the countries are set to champion their homegrown talent as they kick off the sporting event in style.
“These ceremonies will bring together music, culture and football [soccer] in a way that reflects both the individuality of each nation and the unity that defines this tournament,” said FIFA president Gianni Infantino. “It is a powerful way to begin a truly global celebration.”
According to FIFA, the ceremonies will be tied together by “a shared creative thread” that reimagines the World Cup trophy through the cultural lens of each host nation.
Watched by millions of soccer fans across the globe, the contest will see 48 countries compete across 104 games over a five-and-a-half week period.
Although excitement over the World Cup is mounting, there have already been some controversies, as the tournament is taking place against the politically-charged backdrop of the Iran war.
In the U.S., concerns over visa and travel restrictions have been at the forefront of some fans’ minds.
There has also been widespread criticism over the steep ticket prices, with more desirable seats costing tens of thousands of dollars. The attorneys general of New York and New Jersey have issued subpoenas to FIFA over the sports governing body’s ticketing practices.
Despite the various stumbling blocks, the prospect of three action-packed opening ceremonies has been largely well received by fans.
The opening match of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar registered a global reach of over 550 million, according to FIFA, so the pressure for the host countries to put their best foot forward is high.
From who is set to perform to how you can watch the entertainment-filled soccer spectacular from home, here’s what you need to know about the opening ceremonies.
Mexico
The 2026 World Cup will begin in Mexico City, with the tournament’s first opening ceremony and match against South Africa slated to unfold at Mexico City Stadium on June 11 at 1:30 p.m. E.T.
The ceremony is set to celebrate and showcase the best of Latin American talent.
“In Mexico, this concept is brought to life through the intricate and celebratory art of ‘papel picado’ [traditional Mexican craft made from cutting designs into sheets of tissue paper], a powerful symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and joy,” FIFA said, with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum promising a “historic” and “exceptional” event.
Mexican pop rock group Maná has referred to it as the “event of the century” for Mexicans.
“Music has the power to bring us all together, no matter where we’re from, and we’re proud to be a part of that celebration,” the band said as they announced their place on the line-up.
Alejandro Fernández offered a similar sentiment, calling it a “great honor” to be performing at the opening ceremony and representing “Mexican music to the world.”
Colombian musician J Balvin—who sings on Coca Cola’s 2026 World Cup anthem “JUMP”—will also be showcasing his talents.
Additional artists on the line-up include Belinda, Danny Ocean, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, and South African singer Tyla.
Mexico previously hosted the World Cup in 1970 and in 1986.
The 1970 opening ceremony of the games showed the various teams marching into the soccer stadium to the sound of drums. In 1986, an additional march took place with traditional costumes and flags from the states of Mexico.
Canada
Canada will host the second opening ceremony on Friday, June 12, at 1:30 p.m. E.T, with Toronto Stadium welcoming a wide range of homegrown performers as well as international talent
For Canada’s ceremony, the World Cup trophy will be reimagined “as a mosaic, symbolising the people, cultures and communities that define the country,” according to FIFA.
Canadian singer Michael Bublé said he was “honored” to be kicking off the tournament and “can’t wait to celebrate with fans from around the world.”
Toronto-born Jessie Reyez and Palestinian singer Elyanna—who have joined forces for the song “Illuminate,” which features on the FIFA World Cup 2026 album—will be in attendance.
Nora Fatehi, who performed at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, is also set to sing in the star-studded line-up.
Other Canadian artists on the docket include Alanis Morissette, Alessia Cara, and William Prince. They will be joined by Bangladeshi-American DJ Sanjoy and French singer-songwriter Vegedream.
Infantino has teased the Toronto ceremony as a “powerful reflection of Canada’s identity.”
As Canada prepares to be FIFA World Cup hosts for the first time, Prime Minister Mark Carney has emphasized that the country “is ready to welcome the world.”
United States
The United States will host its opening ceremony in Los Angeles on June 12 at 7:30 p.m. E.T.
California-born Katy Perry will take to the stage, with other iconic performances set to come from Future and Tyla.
LISA, who got her start in the global renowned K-pop group Blackpink, will join Brazilian pop star Anitta and Nigerian superstar Rema at the event, with fans hoping the trio will perform their new World Cup song “Goals.”
“The lineup of artists reflects the cultural diversity of the United States and the vibrancy of its many diasporas, highlighting the nation’s rich influence on music, entertainment and pop culture, while showcasing the power of music to bring people together across the country,” said Infantino.
The U.S. previously hosted the World Cup in 1994 and has been waiting years for the opportunity to do it again.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has called for “every Angeleno [to] be part of this historic moment.” As such, the “Kick It In the Park” initiative is set to organize free watch parties, youth soccer clinics, and community celebrations across the city.
Streamer Tubi, owned by Fox Corporation, is also set to simulcast the World Cup opening ceremonies live in 4K.
