The 23rd World Cup drew its curtain yesterday (11/6) at the iconic “Azteca” in Mexico City, with the opening match (Mexico-South Africa 2-0) followed by a spectacular opening ceremony, where four-time Grammy winner Shakira and Nigerian artist Burna Boy took to the world stage to sing the official song of the 2026 World Cup, “Dai Dai,” and Andre Bocelli moved – once again – with his voice.

This was the first of three opening ceremonies, with the baton being passed on late tonight (12/6) in Toronto – also 90 minutes before the match between Canada and Bosnia/Herzegovina (22:00) – and early in the morning in Los Angeles, -90 minutes before -before the USA match against Paraguay (04:00).

It should be noted that Shakira will return for the World Cup final and will appear during the halftime show, as will Madonna and BTS, at an event, curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, which will take place on Sunday, July 19 at the New York Stadium, New Jersey.

The famous Colombian is no stranger to the World Cup, having recorded “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” for the 2010 World Cup.

The party will… move to Toronto tonight at BMO Field, where Canada hosts Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a vibrant celebration inspired by its communities, rich diversity and the unifying power of soccer.

In Canada, this story comes to life through the reimagining of the FIFA World Cup Trophy as a mosaic, symbolizing the people, cultures and communities that define the country.

The ceremony begins with a journey across Canada, as the countdown unfolds through moments that reflect the country from coast to coast.

In Toronto, a special performance has been added by The Beaches, who will take the stage with Bryan Adams, Nora Fatehi with Sanjoy and Vegedream, and of course there will be a collaboration between AHI and Wyclef Jean.

The celebration will conclude with a closing ceremony at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, before the U.S. takes on Panama. A masterclass, led by pop star Katy Perry, will be performed at the event.

In the world’s entertainment capital, football, music and entertainment will come together on a global stage.

The ceremony, produced and creatively collaborated with Balich Wonder Studio, will capture the identity, ambition and creative energy of both the city and the United States.

In Los Angeles, Ava Max and BIA have also been added to the lineup, along with Diplo and Major Lazer and Nigerian superstar Davido.