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The 2026 FIFA World Cup began in Mexico City with an opening ceremony filled with colour, dancing and a performance by global music star Shakira at the legendary Azteca Stadium.
Thousands of fans arrived at the 82,000-capacity venue with a real sense of excitement for the first World Cup on Mexican home turf in 40 years.
For the most part, football took centre stage as Mexico kicked off their campaign with a 2-0 win over South Africa, sparking wild celebrations among home supporters.
But outside the stadium, there were sporadic violent clashes as radical protesters attempted to disrupt the event and were met by a heavy security response, BBC Sport reported.
Mexican officials said nearly 200 hooded individuals broke away from two groups of around 800 protesters and clashed with law enforcement, but the situation “was brought under control” by police.
Despite a heightened security presence around Azteca, the clashes temporarily shut down nearby metro stations.
Meanwhile, teachers and families of those who have gone missing in Mexico’s drug war marched in various protests to highlight their causes while the country was in the global spotlight.
Inside the stadium, fans were treated to performances from Shakira, Colombia’s J Balvin, Afrobeats star Burna Boy and Latin music star Danny Ocean.
Mexican singer-songwriter Fher Olvera of pop punk band Maná took the stage to sing the classic _Oye Mi Amor_, while performers wore indigenous clothing and others in all gold held giant golden footballs above their heads.
“Bienvenida a México. Welcome to Mexico,” a performer announced to start the tournament. “We are a nation of diversity, heritage and pride. Football carries the same heartbeat, uniting generations.”
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A packed stadium of fans dressed in colourful outfits, many wearing Mexico’s team colours, roared as the home side began their quest.
Mexican fan Javier Pérez came with his family for the opener and told the BBC that the excitement now outweighs any hassles experienced up to this point.
“We were lucky to get hospitality tickets and it’s a unique experience. I have never been to a World Cup before so to bring my family is wonderful,” Pérez said.
“I just want Mexico to get off on the right foot, win today and score a load of goals! And then we’ll see how far we can go!” he added.
Mexico is co-hosting the 2026 tournament alongside the US and Canada, with those teams hosting their own opening ceremonies on Friday. Azteca Stadium becomes the first venue in World Cup history to host matches across three different editions.
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