The 2026 World Cup has begun in Mexico City with an opening ceremony filled with colour, dancing and a performance by global music star Shakira.
Thousands of fans arrived at the legendary Azteca stadium in Mexico City with a real sense of excitement for the first World Cup on their home turf in 40 years.
But outside the stadium, there were sporadic violent clashes as radical protesters attempted to disrupt the event and were met by a heavy security response.
For the most part, though, football took centre stage and there were wild celebrations as Mexico kicked off their campaign with a 2-0 win over South Africa.
Javier Pérez came with his family for the opener and told the BBC that the excitement now outweighs any hassles experienced up to this point.
“We were lucky to get hospitality tickets and it’s a unique experience. I have never been to a World Cup before so to bring my family is wonderful,” he said.
“I just want Mexico to get off on the right foot, win today and score a load of goals! And then we’ll see how far we can go!”
Despite a heightened security presence around the 82,000-person stadium, the clashes between police and protesters temporarily shut down nearby metro stations.
Mexican officials said that nearly 200 hooded individuals broke away from two groups of around 800 protesters and clashed with law enforcement, but the situation “was brought under control” by police.
Meanwhile, teachers and families of those who have gone missing in Mexico’s drug war marched in various protests, to highlight their causes while the country is in the global spotlight.
Mexico is co-hosting the 2026 tournament alongside the US and Canada, with those teams hosting their own opening ceremonies on Friday.
Ahead of the match, fans in the stadium were treated to performances from Shakira, Colombia’s J Balvin, Afrobeats star Burna Boy and Latin music star Danny Ocean.
Mexican singer-songwriter Fher Olvera of the pop punk band Maná took the stage to sing the classic Oye Mi Amor.
“Bienvenida a México. Welcome to Mexico,” a performer announced to start the tournament.
“We are a nation of diversity, heritage and pride. Football carries the same heartbeat, uniting generations.”
Performers wore indigenous clothing, while others were dressed in all gold and held giant golden footballs above their heads.
A packed stadium of fans dressed in their own colourful outfits, many wearing Mexico’s team colours.
