Burna Boy, Shakira Electrify 2026 FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony in Mexico City

Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy and Colombian global music icon Shakira delivered a memorable performance at the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, officially launching football’s biggest tournament before a global audience.

The star-studded ceremony took place on Thursday at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City ahead of the opening match between host nation Mexico and South Africa. The event marked the beginning of the first FIFA World Cup to be jointly hosted by three countries — Mexico, the United States and Canada.

Burna Boy and Shakira headlined the entertainment spectacle with a live rendition of “Dai Dai,” the official song of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The performance brought together the infectious rhythms of Afrobeats and Latin pop, reflecting FIFA’s goal of celebrating cultural diversity and global unity through football.

The ceremony also featured performances by several international artists, including J Balvin, Maná, Belinda, Danny Ocean and other entertainers who showcased the rich musical heritage of the host nations and the wider global community.

FIFA had earlier announced that Burna Boy and Shakira would perform the tournament’s official anthem during the opening festivities, generating excitement among football fans and music lovers worldwide. Their appearance underscored the growing influence of African and Latin American music on the global stage.

For Burna Boy, the performance represents another milestone in a career that has seen him become one of Africa’s most celebrated musical exports. Sharing the stage with Shakira, a veteran of previous World Cup musical events, further highlighted the international appeal of the Nigerian star.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the largest in the tournament’s history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across host cities in North America. Organisers hope the opening ceremony’s blend of football, music and culture sets the tone for a month-long celebration of the world’s most popular sport.