The 2026 World Cup continues tonight in Canada and the United States, where two more opening ceremonies will be held.
Mexico City Spectacular
The initial opening ceremony took place ahead of Mexico's Group A opener against South Africa on Thursday. The pre-match show at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City was headlined by Shakira and Burna Boy, who performed 'Dai Dai', the official World Cup 2026 song, for the first time live. The ceremony also celebrated the best of Latin American talent, with FIFA saying in a statement: "In Mexico, this concept is brought to life through the intricate and celebratory art of 'papel picado', a powerful symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and joy." Mexican band Mana performed, alongside Alejandro Fernandez and Colombian J Balvin, as well as Belinda, Danny Ocean, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, and Tyla.
Canada's Ceremony in Toronto
Canada's opening ceremony will take place at BMO Field in Toronto. Jessie Reyez and Palestinian singer Elyanna will perform, and Michael Buble headlines the evening's pre-match entertainment. Nora Fatehi, Alanis Morissette, Alessia Cara, William Prince, DJ Sanjoy and Vegedream complete the lineup in a show that FIFA president Gianni Infantino has hailed a "powerful reflection of Canada's identity".
USA's Ceremony in Los Angeles
Later on Friday (overnight in the UK) in Los Angeles, California, the USA take centre stage as Katy Perry, Future and Tyla all perform at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. K-pop band Blackpink will be joined by Brazilian Anitta and Nigerian Rema. "The lineup of artists reflects the cultural diversity of the United States and the vibrancy of its many diasporas, highlighting the nation's rich influence on music, entertainment and pop culture, while showcasing the power of music to bring people together across the country," Infantino said.
World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony Start Time
Canada's World Cup opening ceremony begins at 6:30pm BST on Friday night - 1.30pm local time in Toronto - and the LA show begins at 12.30am BST. That is 7.30pm local time in California.
Closing Ceremony
A closing ceremony is yet to be confirmed. Madonna, Shakira and K-pop superstars BTS will all headline the first-ever World Cup final half-time show at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday, July 19.
