The FIFA World Cup 2026 officially gets underway on Thursday with a star-studded opening ceremony at Mexico City Stadium, setting the stage for the tournament's first match between Mexico and South Africa.

For the first time, the FIFA World Cup will feature 48 nations, making the 2026 edition the largest in the tournament's history with 104 games scheduled.

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The tournament is being jointly hosted by Mexico, Canada and the United States. To celebrate the historic occasion, FIFA has organised three separate opening ceremonies across the three host countries, with Mexico hosting the first of the events.

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The first FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony will be held at Mexico City Stadium on Thursday.

Fans watching from India can tune in from 11 pm IST, approximately 90 minutes before the opening match begins. FIFA has indicated that the ceremony itself will last around 16 minutes and 30 seconds.

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Supporters attending the match in person have been advised to reach the venue early. Stadium gates are scheduled to open four hours before kick-off, and a range of entertainment activities will take place around the ground before the main event begins.

Shakira and Burna Boy headline performer list

One of the most anticipated moments of the evening will be the first-ever live performance of Dai Dai, the Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Song. The track will be performed by Shakira and Burna Boy in front of a global audience for the first time.

Dai Dai is also linked to FIFA's Global Citizen Education Fund campaign.

FIFA's performer lineup also features Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, Danny Ocean, J Balvin, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, Maná and Tyla. FIFA has additionally confirmed that Ryan Castro will join J Balvin during the show.

Salma Hayek to make special appearance

The ceremony will also include a special appearance from Hollywood actor Salma Hayek Pinault, who is serving as one of FIFA World Cup 2026's ambassadors.

National anthems to feature before opening match

Before Mexico and South Africa take to the field, there will be a special pre-match segment featuring performances of both national anthems.

Alejandro Fernández is set to perform Mexico's national anthem, while South African singer Tyla will perform South Africa's anthem ahead of the tournament opener.

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The initiative aims to raise $100 million before the end of the tournament. The funds will be used to support programmes that provide children around the world with access to education and football opportunities.

The Mexico City ceremony will mark the first live public performance of the song.

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The opening show is being produced by Marco Balich, the acclaimed creative director known for his work on Olympic ceremonies and several major international sporting events.

FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony: Where to watch in India

Indian viewers can watch the opening ceremony live on Unite8 Sports television channels, including Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD.

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Live streaming of the event will also be available through Zee5's website and mobile application.