The 2026 World Cup is about to begin and it does so in an unprecedented way. Instead of a single ceremony, there will be three opening acts, one in each host country: Mexico, Canada, and the United States. This proposal aims to highlight the identity of each nation while emphasizing the unity that the tournament represents.
As planned, the first show takes place this Thursday in Mexico City. The Estadio Azteca, an icon of world football, will be the main stage starting at 11:30 AM. After the cultural and musical act, at 1:00 PM Mexico will face South Africa in the opening match.
The list of artists performing in Mexico is luxurious. Shakira, Alejandro Fernández, Burna Boy, Belinda, Danny Ocean, J Balvin, Ryan Castro, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, Maná, and Tyla promise a show that mixes Latin rhythms, African sounds, and local music.
The party continues in Toronto
Tomorrow it will be Canada's turn. Toronto's BMO Field will host the second ceremony at 11:30 AM (Guatemala time). Before the match between Canada and Bosnia-Herzegovina scheduled for 1:00 PM, Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé, Aleksandar Gajić, Alessia Cara, Elyanna, Jessie Reyez, Nora Fatehi, Vegedream, William Prince, and DJ Sanjoy will take the stage.
This show will seek to reflect Canadian multiculturalism with voices representing different styles and backgrounds. The energy of pop, soul, and global rhythms will mark the day on the maple leaf.












