Against the backdrop of geopolitical turmoil, the world’s biggest sporting event kicked off at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup — the first edition hosted across three nations (Mexico, the United States, and Canada) — was a spectacle of Latin American musical firepower: Maná opened with Oye Mi Amor, followed by Danny Ocean, Belinda with Los Ángeles Azules, J Balvin, Ryan Castro, and finally Shakira alongside Burna Boy performing the tournament’s official anthem, Dai Dai.
The first match, Mexico vs. South Africa, followed immediately, with kickoff at 1 p.m. local time. The Guardian noted the “spectacular” television setups, including ITV’s outdoor studio on the Hudson River with a sweeping Manhattan backdrop.
But the party atmosphere was tempered by sticker shock. As Greek outlet Ta Nea reported, concession prices inside World Cup stadiums have provoked outrage: a 500ml bottle of water will cost $5.99, and a full liter runs $10.49 — particularly concerning given that temperatures in some host cities could reach 47°C (117°F). The tournament promises to test wallets as much as athletic endurance.
