- Global Stars Deliver Spectacular Performance at Historic Estadio Azteca
MEXICO CITY: International music stars Shakira and Nigerian singer Burna Boy electrified fans during the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the iconic Estadio Azteca on Thursday, ahead of the tournament’s first match between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa.
The ceremony marked the beginning of a historic World Cup, with 48 teams competing across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The expanded tournament will feature 104 matches, concluding with the final in New Jersey on July 19.
A Grand Celebration at Football’s Historic Venue
The opening ceremony transformed the legendary Estadio Azteca into a stage of celebration, featuring spectacular choreography, fireworks, and a giant replica of the FIFA World Cup trophy surrounded by dancers.
The stadium, which has hosted two previous World Cup finals in 1970 and 1986, underwent major renovations ahead of this year’s global football event.
The highlight of the ceremony came when Colombian superstar Shakira and Burna Boy performed “Dai Dai,” the official song of the tournament, receiving a massive response from the crowd.
Festive Spirit Meets Crowd Management Challenges
While the atmosphere inside the stadium remained vibrant and celebratory, difficulties emerged in central Mexico City as thousands of fans faced delays while attempting to enter the official World Cup fan zone.
Access to the viewing area at Zócalo Plaza was complicated by security barriers installed in recent days amid protests by teachers demanding higher salaries.
Officials used loudspeakers to control the crowd as fans pushed to enter the venue.
“Stop pushing and shoving, there are children here,” one city official urged as security teams attempted to manage the situation.
Fans Demand Better Organization
Some supporters expressed frustration over the crowd control measures, with several fans throwing bottles and criticizing police while continuing to chant in support of the Mexican team.
“It’s crazy. There could have been better organization,” said 25-year-old fan Javier Maciel.
Authorities later announced that the fan zone had reached capacity and advised visitors to use alternative locations.
Political Tensions Surround World Cup Festivities
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum had been expected to attend the public fan zone event but reconsidered her appearance following days of teacher protests in the area.
Despite the challenges outside the stadium, the opening ceremony successfully launched the 2026 FIFA World Cup, combining football, music, and global culture on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
BY: The Times Union
