Colombian pop star Shakira will headline the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony in Mexico, performing her official song "Dai Dai" with Burna Boy. The performance at Estadio Azteca on June 11 precedes Mexico's match against South Africa, the tournament's first of 104 games. Colombian reggaeton star J Balvin and South African singer Tyla will join the star-studded event.

Opening ceremonies will take place across all three host nations. Michael Buble and Alanis Morissette will perform in Toronto before Canada's match against Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 12. In Los Angeles, pop star Katy Perry and rapper Future will entertain fans before the USA takes on Paraguay. Each ceremony sets the tone for matches that kick off the tournament.

Beyond the opening ceremonies, Shakira will join Madonna and K-pop group BTS as co-headliners for the World Cup final half-time show on July 19. These performances will draw massive viewership and set social media trends during the championship match.