Mexico City — The 2026 World Cup will break records not only for its expanded 48-team format but also for its unprecedented three opening ceremonies, one in each host nation, FIFA announced Thursday.
According to The Athletic, FIFA has designed separate pregame shows for the debut matches of Mexico, Canada, and the United States, featuring a mix of international pop stars and local talent.
Mexico: June 11 at Estadio Ciudad de Mexico
The festivities in Mexico begin on June 11 at the iconic Mexico City stadium — officially renamed Estadio Ciudad de Mexico for the tournament — before the host nation faces South Africa. The lineup includes:
- Alejandro Fernandez
- Mana
- Belinda
- Los Angeles Azules
- South African singer Tyla (expected guest)
Canada: June 12 in Toronto
On June 12, Toronto hosts the second ceremony ahead of Canada’s match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The show will highlight Canadian artists:
- Michael Buble
- Alanis Morissette
- Alessia Cara
- Jessie Reyez
- Nora Fatehi
- William Prince
United States: June 12 at SoFi Stadium
The third ceremony takes place at SoFi Stadium near Los Angeles before the United States faces Paraguay. Headliner Katy Perry will be joined by:
- Future
- Sanjoy
- Marilina Bogado (Paraguayan singer)
FIFA also confirmed additional performances across the three events from Lisa of Blackpink, J Balvin, Anitta, Danny Ocean, Elyanna, and Vegedream.
The 2026 World Cup is the first to feature 48 teams and 16 host cities across North America. The final is scheduled for July 19 in New York. With three opening ceremonies, FIFA aims to spread the spotlight and turn the tournament’s start into a continent-wide cultural celebration.
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