If there was ever any doubt about who owns the World Cup stage, Shakira wasted no time putting it to rest. In front of more than 80,000 fans inside Mexico City's iconic Estadio Azteca and millions watching around the globe, the Colombian superstar delivered another unforgettable football moment at the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony.
Surrounded by an impressive line-up of international talent, Shakira reminded audiences why, whenever football and music collide, she remains the woman everyone wants at the centre of the party.
Shakira Once Again Owned the Spotlight
Shakira took centre stage alongside Nigerian superstar Burna Boy to perform the tournament's official anthem, 'Dai Dai'. The performance immediately set the tone for an evening built around celebration, culture, and anticipation.
Her commanding stage presence, infectious energy, and unmistakable charisma transformed the massive stadium into what felt like the world's biggest concert venue.
It was another reminder that Shakira and the World Cup have become almost inseparable in the minds of football fans.
The ceremony began 90 minutes before Mexico faced South Africa in the tournament's opening match. However, this was far more than a simple pre-match warm-up.
A wave of international performers joined the festivities, including Maná, J Balvin, Belinda, Danny Ocean, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, and South African star Tyla. Each artist brought their own flavour to the event, creating a vibrant showcase of music that reflected the tournament's global spirit.
Estadio Azteca Became the Centre of the World
The legendary stadium has witnessed some of the sport's most iconic moments, including appearances by the late Pelé and Diego Maradona during previous World Cups. On Thursday night, it once again found itself at the centre of history.
According to organisers, more than 80,000 supporters packed into the venue while millions more tuned in from across the world. Mexico also became the first nation to host the World Cup three times, although this edition is being shared with the United States and Canada.
Music and Football United the Crowd
Before kick-off, Tyla performed South Africa's national anthem, while Mexican music icon Alejandro Fernández delivered a stirring rendition of Mexico's anthem. Fher Olvera, lead singer of Maná, captured the mood perfectly.
'I believe that two of the most beautiful things in existence are art and sports because they have the ability to bring people together', he said. 'Soccer unites entire countries around the same emotion, and music does something similar.'
Salma Hayek Added Hollywood Glamour
Serving as honorary host and official tournament ambassador, Hayek welcomed both those inside the stadium and viewers watching around the globe. Her appearance highlighted Mexico's pride in hosting such a significant occasion and reinforced the celebratory atmosphere surrounding the opening ceremony.
Meanwhile, Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum chose not to attend the opening match. Instead, she handed her ticket to a young football fan through a nationwide contest, a gesture that many praised.
Why Shakira Still Reigns Supreme
Over the years, countless artists have performed on football's grandest stages. Yet very few have become woven into the fabric of the tournament quite like Shakira. Whether it is her ability to command an audience or her natural understanding of the joy and passion football inspires, she consistently delivers moments that linger long after the final whistle.
These 10 photos capture more than glamorous outfits and dazzling smiles. They tell the story of an artist who continues to define the soundtrack of football's biggest celebration.
As FIFA World Cup 2026 officially got underway, one truth became impossible to ignore. Shakira is still the Queen of the World Cup.
