Washington: FIFA confirmed on Friday that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will kick off with three separate opening ceremonies spread across the tournament’s host nations, Mexico, Canada, and the United States, marking the first time in the competition’s history that multiple opening celebrations will be staged.

The festivities will begin in Mexico City on June 11, 90 minutes before the opening match between Mexico and South Africa at the iconic Azteca Stadium, temporarily renamed Mexico City Stadium for the tournament.

The Mexican ceremony will feature a powerful Latin music lineup including Colombian superstar J Balvin, legendary Mexican rock band Mana, pop singer Alejandro Fernandez, Belinda, Lila Downs, South African star Tyla, and Los Angeles Azules.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the ceremonies as a reflection of the tournament’s global spirit.

“Starting with Mexico City and continuing the next days with Toronto and Los Angeles, these ceremonies will bring together music, culture and football in a way that reflects both the individuality of each nation and the unity that defines this tournament,” Infantino said in a statement.

Canada’s opening celebration will take place on June 12 in Toronto ahead of the host nation’s clash against Bosnia and Hercegovina. The event will showcase Canadian and international stars including Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé, Alessia Cara, Elyanna, Jessie Reyez, and Nora Fatehi.

Organisers said the Canadian show will take fans on “a journey across Canada” with performances reflecting the country’s culture from coast to coast.

Later the same day, the United States will launch its campaign against Paraguay in Los Angeles with another high-profile entertainment spectacle. Pop superstar Katy Perry will headline the ceremony alongside rapper Future, Lisa of K-pop group Blackpink, Brazilian singer Anitta, Nigerian artist Rema, and Tyla.

Infantino said the Los Angeles ceremony would highlight the diversity and cultural influence of the United States through music and entertainment.

Additional performers set to appear during the opening celebrations include Venezuelan reggaeton artist Danny Ocean and Bangladeshi-American DJ Sanjoy.

FIFA also encouraged fans to arrive early, promising interactive experiences and a major role for supporters during the ceremonies.

“Across time zones and borders, the celebrations are united by one central idea: a shared heartbeat,” FIFA said in its statement.