FIFA World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony In Pics: Best photos from star-studded event headlined by Shakira

Shakira was the star attraction of the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony but there was a lot more to watch and here we bring you the best moments from the opening act ahead of the Mexico vs South Africa clash.

FP Sports Desk|2 min read

1/13

Shakira performs during the opening ceremony before the match between Mexico and South Africa at Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico - June 11, 2026. Image: Reuters

2/13

Mana perform during the opening ceremony before the match between Mexico and South Africa at the Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico - June 11, 2026. Image: Reuters

3/13

Fans gather at the FIFA Fan Festival at Zocalo square ahead of the 2026 World Cup football tournament Group A match between Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. Image: AFP

4/13

Artists perform during the opening ceremony ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. Image: AFP

5/13

Artists perform during the opening ceremony ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. Image: AFP

6/13

Shakira and Burna Boy perform during the opening ceremony before the match between Mexico and South Africa. Image: Reuters

7/13

Danny Ocean performs during the opening ceremony before the match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. Image: Reuters

8/13

Performer during the opening ceremony before the match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. Image: Reuters

9/13

Mexico fans inside the stadium before the match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. Image: Reuters

10/13

Fireworks explode during the opening ceremony ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. Image: AFP

11/13

J Balvin performs during the opening ceremony before the match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. Image: Reuters

12/13

Belinda and Los Angeles Azules perform during the opening ceremony before the match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. Image: Reuters

13/13

A performer during the opening ceremony before the match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. Image: Reuters

The Luis de la Fuente effect: Spain’s secret weapon in their 2026 World Cup victory

Spain’s 2026 FIFA World Cup triumph was not about a single superstar but about a collective force shaped by Luis de la Fuente’s leadership. His ability to value every player created a family‑oriented squad that thrived under pressure.

4 min read

Rodri beats Messi to win Golden Boot award; Check out full list of 2026 World Cup award winners

The 2026 World Cup wrapped up in thrilling fashion, with Spain clinching a 1-0 victory over defending champions Argentina to become world champions. La Roja will add a second star above their crest, joining the list of teams that became multi-time World Cup winners. Substitute Ferran Torres struck in extra time to help Spain secure a 1-0 lead. The Spanish side looked utterly dominant with their playmaking, while Argentina was lacklustre. Even Messi, who carried the team to the summit clash, failed to display his magic. Following the tournament, check out the full list of the FIFA 2026 World Cup award winners.

1 min read

Messi breaks down after World Cup defeat, shares touching hug with Lamine Yamal

Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal had a heartwarming passing-the-baton moment when both of them hugged it out after Spain defeated Argentina to win the 2026 World Cup winners.

1 min read

FIFA World Cup jackpot: What does Spain take home after beating Argentina?

A dramatic 106th-minute goal by Ferran Torres helped Spain beat Argentina in the FIFA World Cup finals. With this victory, Spain not only holds bragging rights but also earns a whopping $50 million (nearly Rs 482 crore) in prize money. The winning side also receives, for the first time, customised championship rings that are estimated to be around $150,000 (Rs 1.4 crore)

4 min read

De la Fuente credits team spirit for Spain's World Cup glory

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said a teamfirst mentality powered his players as they beat Argentina 10 on Sunday to win the World Cup for the second time and establish themselves as international football's dominant side

2 min read