Video: The 2026 FIFA World Cup has kicked off in Mexico City
The World Cup officially kicked off in Mexico. The festive opening ceremony took place at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
The opening ceremony was brief but packed with events. The highlight of the ceremony was a performance by Colombian singer Shakira. She also opened the 2010 World Cup.
This year’s opening ceremony preceded the opening match. Azteca Stadium will host the match between the Mexican national team and the South African national team. The kickoff is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. Kyiv time.
Recall that UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk called on the U.S. to review its immigration and security policies ahead of the World Cup.
The World Cup is set to kick off in the US, Mexico, and Canada. Earlier, FIFA banned a new tactical practice ahead of the 2026 World Cup.