Shakira kicks off the World Cup in star-studded opening ceremony as blockbuster tournament gets underway amid chaos in Mexico

Shakira officially opened the 2026 World Cup on Thursday as the football extravaganza kicked off against a backdrop of chaos that threatens to derail the tournament.

The biggest World Cup in history has officially arrived in North America with thousands of fans descending on the United States, Canada and Mexico to watch their beloved teams in action.

In a rematch of the opening match from 2010, Mexico kickstarted the blockbuster tournament with a 2-0 win against South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Thursday.

Yet, before the first whistle was even blown, fans were treated to an eye-catching display of action.

Shakira and Burna Boy performed Dai Dai, the official song of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to headline the opening ceremony.

In a spectacle of color and sound, hundreds of dancers joined the Colombian singer, who turned heads in a neon yellow bodysuit and white miniskirts, on the stage at the center of the field.

Thousands of fans went wild inside the Azteca as Shakira, who also recorded the official anthem for the 2010 World Cup, shimmied her hips amid the sea of backup dancers.

She lit up the arena with her signature dance moves and trademark high-energy as she was joined by a traditional Mexican mariachi band.

A massive gold replica of the World Cup trophy erupted from the ground at the center of the stage as the stream of dancers in brightly colored outfits burst out alongside the statue.

The jam-packed show also featured performances from Alejandro Fernandez, Belinda, Danny Ocean, J Balvin, Lila Downs, Los Angeles Azules, Mana and Tyla - all of whom featured on the first-ever FIFA World Cup album.

Shakira's fellow Colombian, rapper J Balvin, was one of the biggest headlining acts at the ceremony, strutting on stage before Shakira's appearance.

J Balvin, one of the biggest artists in Latin America, performed alongside singer Ryan Castro after Mexican pop-rock legends Mana warmed up the home crowd with their classic hits.

Mexican actress and FIFA ambassador Salma Hayek was tasked with officially opening the tournament.

She delivered a short welcome speech before the ceremonial display of national flags and was later spotted in the stands alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

South African singer Tyla performed her nation's national anthem before kickoff before later taking a seat alongside reggaeton singer Becky G, who, despite being born in the US, proudly embraces her Mexican heritage and supports El Tri.

A stream of Mexican fans descended on the famous stadium hours before kickoff to celebrate their nation hosting the World Cup for a record third time.

They transformed the Azteca into a spectacle of color, dressing in red and green from head to toe.

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