The 2026 World Cup will officially begin on Thursday, June 11, with a star‑studded opening ceremony at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City before hosts Mexico take on South Africa in Group A. The pre‑match show, scheduled to start at 6:15pm UK time (11:15am local), will be headlined by four‑time Grammy winner Shakira and Nigerian star Burna Boy, who will perform the tournament’s official song, ‘Dai Dai’. They will be joined by South African singer Tyla, Colombian star J Balvin, Danny Ocean, and iconic Mexican acts Maná, Alejandro Fernández, Belinda and Los Ángeles Azules.
The curtain‑raiser, which kicks off at 8pm UK time, will be broadcast live on ITV1, with coverage starting at 6:15pm to capture the full ceremony. Fans can also stream the entire event free on ITVX, though a registered account is required. For those listening on the move, BBC Radio 5 Live will provide comprehensive live radio commentary across the country via traditional frequencies or the BBC Sounds app. In the United States, English‑language coverage is available on FOX and free ad‑supported platform Tubi, while Spanish‑language viewers can tune in to Telemundo or stream on Peacock Premium.
“Shakira and Burna Boy headline the World Cup opening ceremony before Mexico vs South Africa on June 11.”
Mexico manager Javier Aguirre has called upon veteran forward Raúl Jiménez to lead the attack, while legendary goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa makes history with his sixth World Cup call‑up. The match is the first of three opening ceremonies planned for the tournament, which will be staged across North America.
As the hosts prepare to face South Africa, the Estadio Azteca – a venue steeped in World Cup history – will provide the stage for the opening act of a month‑long football festival.