Xavi to Perform at the 2026 World Cup Opening Ceremony in Mexico City
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is fast approaching. Details are emerging about the opening ceremony, set to be a historic event. The first artist confirmed to perform is the Mexican singer Xavi.
Inauguration Details
The 2026 World Cup inauguration will take place on Thursday, June 11th, at noon at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. With just months to go, the anticipation is building for this momentous occasion.
According to Mexico City’s Mayor, Clara Brugada, that day will be an official holiday so that everyone can enjoy the ceremony, as Mexico City prepares to host its third World Cup.
Xavi Confirmed as First Performer
Attention, soccer fans! It's confirmed: the first Mexican artist to perform at the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony is Xavi, the 21-year-old singer known for his corridos tumbados style.
Xavi confirmed his participation on Tuesday, September 30th. He expressed his excitement about being part of this unique World Cup, the first to be held in three countries and featuring 48 teams. The artist also stated he feels proud to represent Mexico.
When approached at the airport, Xavi acknowledged his involvement but kept details vague. “I can’t say yet, it’s a surprise. Super grateful, for real. It’s a surprise, I don’t know, I can’t say anything yet because if I do, it won’t happen, but if it happens, it happens. Something good is coming,” he told the media.
Fan Reaction to Xavi's Performance
Rumors of Xavi's participation had circulated for weeks, and the announcement has not been universally well-received by soccer fans.
Xavi's musical style, corridos tumbados, remains controversial and faces frequent criticism. Some fans expressed their disapproval of his appearance at the 2026 World Cup.
Some of the reactions included: "What is happening to the world," "It's a shame that Mexico has people who have talent and sing well, not like these abominations," "Take away our hosting rights," "How awful," "They're hiring just any artist."
