FIFA World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony: Performers, Timings, and How to Watch

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is about to begin! For the first time, the tournament is being held in three countries at the same time. The United States, Mexico, and Canada will all host opening ceremonies before their first matches. This is a very special moment in football history.

What Is the FIFA World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony?

The opening ceremony is a big show that happens before the first match of the World Cup. This year, there will be three opening ceremonies in three different cities. Each ceremony will celebrate the culture of its host country through music, dance, and art.

All three ceremonies are being directed by Marco Balich, who has created shows for many Olympic ceremonies in the past. Even though each show will look different, all three are connected by one big idea: football brings people together.

• Mexico will be shown through the art of papel picado (colourful paper decorations).

• Canada will celebrate its cultural mosaic, which means its mix of many cultures.

• The US will show a "super shiny, glowing cup" to represent its style and energy.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said: "Starting with Mexico City and continuing the next days with Toronto and Los Angeles, these ceremonies will bring together music, culture and football."

Who Is Playing in the Opening Matches?

Each ceremony is followed by a football match. Here are the opening games:

Canada's match is extra special. It will be the first-ever World Cup match played by Canada on their home soil.

Note: This time 4 different countries are also playing for the first time in FIFA World Cup, that are: Uzbekistan, Jordan, Cabo Verde, and Curaçao.

Who Is Performing at the Opening Ceremonies?

Mexico City (June 11)

The Mexico ceremony will have some very big names in music. Performers include:

• Shakira (she will also co-headline the World Cup Final show on July 19)

• Burna Boy

• J Balvin

• Alejandro Fernandez

• Belinda

• Lila Downs

• Los Angeles Azules

• Mana

• Danny Ocean

• Tyla (South African singer)

Indigenous performers and folkloric acts will also be part of the show, making it a celebration of Mexican culture.

Toronto (June 12)

Canada's ceremony will take viewers on a journey "from coast to coast to coast" across the country. Performers include:

• Alanis Morissette

• Michael Buble

• Alessia Cara

• Nora Fatehi

• Jessie Reyez

• Elyanna

• Sanjoy

• Vegedream

• William Prince

Los Angeles (June 12)

The US ceremony will have global pop and music stars. Performers include:

• Katy Perry

• Future

• Anitta

• LISA

• Rema

• Tyla

FIFA chose these artists to show how the US is home to people from all over the world.

When Do the Ceremonies Start? Full Schedule

Mexico City, June 11

Note: June 11 is a public holiday in Mexico City. Schools will be closed, and many offices will allow people to work from home.

Toronto, June 12

Los Angeles, June 12

Each ceremony will last between 13 and 16 minutes. After the show ends, the teams will warm up on the pitch,, and then the match will begin.

How to Watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony in the USA?

In the United States

• English: FOX and FS1

• Spanish: Telemundo and Universo

• Free streaming: Tubi (Mexico vs South Africa on June 11 and USA vs Paraguay on June 12)

• All 104 matches: FOX One app (subscription needed)

• Spanish streaming: Peacock and Telemundo app

In Other Countries

Key Facts About the World Cup 2026

• First match: June 11, Mexico vs South Africa in Mexico City

• Final: July 19 in New York

• Total matches: 104 (the highest ever)

• Total Team: 48 Teams

• Host cities: 16 across the US, Canada, and Mexico

• World Cup Final halftime performers: Shakira, Madonna, and BTS

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is shaping up to be the biggest football event in history. With three countries hosting together for the very first time and a massive lineup of music stars, the opening ceremonies will be something truly unforgettable. Whether you are watching at the stadium or from home, do not miss it!