FIFA 2026 will stage separate opening ceremonies in Mexico, Canada and the United States before each host nation plays its first World Cup match. The move adds a fresh cultural element to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will become the biggest tournament in football history. The competition begins on June 11 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The famous venue will become the first stadium to host opening matches at three FIFA World Cups after previously staging the 1970 and 1986 openers. Estadio Azteca FIFA confirmed that Grammy Award-winning Mexican band Mana will headline the Mexico City ceremony. Singers Alejandro Fernandez and Belinda will also perform. The organization said the show will celebrate Mexican heritage through music and dance. FIFA added that the concert will include Indigenous and “modern folkloric” performers. The opening match in Mexico City is expected to attract huge global attention. Fans will also return to the renovated Azteca Stadium, one of football’s most historic venues. The stadium hosted Diego Maradona’s legendary “Hand of God” goal and his famous solo strike against England during the 1986 World Cup. Canada and US Plan Star-Studded Shows Canada will stage its ceremony before the country’s opening group-stage match against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto on June 12. FIFA announced performances by Alanis Morissette, Michael Buble, Alessia Cara and William Prince. Los Angeles-based DJ Sanjoy will also appear during the event. FIFA said a “mosaic-inspired reimagining of the FIFA World Cup Trophy will reflect Canada’s diversity and community.” Later that day, the United States will host its own ceremony before the US team faces Paraguay in Los Angeles. Pop star Katy Perry will headline the event. Rapper Future will also perform. The lineup includes Brazilian singer Anitta, Thai rapper LISA, Nigerian artist Rema and South African Grammy winner Tyla. FIFA described the US show as a production focused on “delivering a high-energy spectacle that reflects the scale, ambition and cultural power of the tournament itself.” Biggest FIFA World Cup Ever The 2026 tournament will feature 48 teams instead of 32. FIFA expects record-breaking attendance and television audiences across North America. The tournament also marks only the second time that multiple countries will co-host the World Cup. South Korea and Japan jointly hosted the 2002 edition, with South Korea staging the opening ceremony. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has described the 2026 tournament as a landmark event for global football because of its expanded format and cross-border hosting model. The final will take place at MetLife Stadium on July 19, 2026.