South African-born superstar sang the national anthem at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Fifa World Cup.
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South African-born superstar Tyla delivered an electrifying performance in Mexico at the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ahead of the Mexico versus Bafana Bafana clash at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, the “Pretty Girl from Joburg” performed a stirring rendition of the South African national anthem in a poignant and powerful moment that drew strong emotion from the crowd.
The Grammy Award-winning singer added a personal touch to a global stage moment, representing South Africa during one of the tournament’s most symbolic opening celebrations.
The Bafana players sang along as Tyla sang the anthem as well as coach Hugo Broos and the South Africans in the audience.
The superstar was joined on stage by some of the members of the Mzansi Youth Choir.
The event was headlined by Shakira and Burna Boy, who performed their new collaboration, “Dai Dai” - the official 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem - lighting up the stage in a high-energy performance that had the crowd singing and dancing. Wearing sunglasses and backed by a vibrant production, the Colombian superstar and Nigerian hitmaker set the tone for the tournament with a celebration of global unity through music.
The ceremony itself was a showcase of Mexican culture and pride, featuring performances from legendary rock band Maná, regional icon Alejandro Fernández and pop star Belinda, all taking to an exquisitely designed stage inspired by Mexico’s cultural heritage.
They were joined by a broader Latin line-up including cumbia legends Los Ángeles Azules, folk artist Lila Downs, Venezuelan singer Danny Ocean and Colombian superstar J Balvin, rounding out a diverse celebration that reflected both Mexico’s musical identity and the global spirit of the World Cup opening.
The host nation also used the occasion to welcome the world, with a performer announcing on stage alongside Mexican dancers and mariachi bands: “People of the world, welcome to Mexico Mexico receives you with smiles from our hearts.”
She added: “The Fifa World Cup connects nations.The trophy is not defined by one played, not by one nation but us all.”
Internationally acclaimed and Mexican-born actress Salma Hayek Pinault also played a symbolic role in the Mexico City 2026 World Cup opening festivities, appearing as a prominent cultural ambassador during the ceremony. She star brought star power and national pride to the event, underscoring Mexico’s global influence in both film and culture.
She also lifted the World Cup trophy with Fifa president Gianni Infantino.
Following the actress's address in a red power suit, officials carried the flags of every one of the 48 nations while attendees applauded.
The national team were then led onto the stage, led by captain, Bafana's goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams as the South African and Mexican flags were drapped on the sides of the pitch.
The 2026 Fifa World Cup has now officially kicked off!