World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony review: Shakira scores but Mexico’s ceremony falls short

The highly anticipated opening ceremony of the 2026 World Cup in Mexico City was a spectacle that drew attention from football fans worldwide. The ceremony featured a performance by the renowned Colombian singer Shakira, who has a long history of association with the World Cup, having previously performed at the 2010 and 2014 tournaments. Her energetic performance was a highlight of the event, and her ability to engage the crowd was evident throughout her act. The ceremony also showcased the vibrant cultural heritage of Mexico, with a plethora of traditional music, dance, and art on display. However, despite the impressive lineup of performers and the cultural significance of the event, the ceremony felt rushed and lacked a sense of cohesion. The time constraint seemed to be a major factor, as the performances and presentations felt hurried, leaving the audience with a sense of incompleteness. The Mexico City Stadium, which hosted the ceremony, was filled with excitement and energy, but the overall impact of the event was somewhat diminished by the lack of a smooth flow. The ceremony was the first of three opening ceremonies, and it will be interesting to see how the subsequent events unfold. In terms of the cultural significance of the ceremony, it was heartening to see the organizers make an effort to showcase the rich heritage of Mexico, which added a unique flavor to the event. The ceremony also featured a range of traditional Mexican performances, including music and dance, which were well-received by the audience. Overall, while the ceremony had its moments, it fell short of expectations due to the time constraint and the lack of a cohesive flow.