Shakira, who has become synonymous with World Cup anthems since her unforgettable “Waka Waka” performance at the 2010 tournament in South Africa, headlined the ceremony with a high-energy set that included a new tournament anthem and a medley of her classic World Cup hits. The Colombian superstar, performing on a massive stage designed to resemble the Aztec Sun Stone, was joined by Mexican artists and performers from across the Americas in a show that celebrated football’s power to unite.

A Historic Tournament Format

The 2026 World Cup is historic in multiple ways. It is the first to feature 48 teams — up from the traditional 32 — spread across 104 matches played in 16 cities across three countries. The expanded format means more nations than ever have the opportunity to compete on football’s grandest stage, with debutants and returning nations adding fresh storylines to the tournament.

The group stage features 12 groups of four teams each, with the top two from each group and the eight best third-placed teams advancing to a 32-team knockout round. The format has been praised for increasing representation but criticised by some purists who argue it dilutes the quality of competition. FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the decision, saying: “Football belongs to everyone. This World Cup proves that the beautiful game has no borders.”

India, despite its 1.4 billion population and growing football culture, once again failed to qualify for the tournament — a source of ongoing frustration for Indian football fans. However, the massive Indian diaspora in the United States and Canada is expected to be a significant presence at matches, with Indian-origin fans supporting various teams including host nations and traditional powerhouses. (Related: FIFA World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony Lineup Announ…)

The Opening Match

The opening match, played immediately after the ceremony, saw hosts Mexico take on a spirited challenge in front of a rapturous home crowd at the 87,000-capacity Estadio Azteca. The stadium, which hosted the 1970 and 1986 World Cup finals and witnessed Diego Maradona’s legendary “Hand of God” and “Goal of the Century,” added another chapter to its storied history.

The atmosphere was electric from the first whistle, with Mexican fans creating a wall of sound that could be heard across Mexico City. The tournament’s use of advanced VAR technology, semi-automated offside detection, and connected ball technology — which provides real-time data on ball speed, spin, and trajectory — marks a significant leap in football officiating technology.

What It Means for Global Football

The 2026 World Cup arrives at a transformative moment for global football. The sport’s economics are changing rapidly, with Saudi Arabia’s investment-driven league disrupting European dominance in player recruitment, and the growing influence of American soccer through Major League Soccer and increased broadcasting deals. The tri-nation hosting model is being watched closely as a template for future mega-events. (Related: FIFA Announces First-Ever World Cup Final Halftime…)

For the host nations, the tournament represents a massive economic opportunity. An estimated $5 billion in direct economic impact is expected across the three countries, with host cities investing heavily in infrastructure, transportation, and hospitality upgrades. Mexico City alone has spent over $800 million on stadium renovations, road improvements, and public transit enhancements.

The tournament also carries geopolitical significance. At a time when the US is engaged in military conflict with Iran and global tensions are elevated, the World Cup offers a rare moment of international unity through sport. Teams from 48 nations, representing every continent, will compete in a celebration of athletic excellence that transcends political boundaries.

India’s World Cup Dream

For Indian football fans, the World Cup remains a bittersweet occasion — a reminder of the sport’s global appeal and India’s continued absence from its biggest stage. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has set a target of qualifying for the 2034 World Cup, which will be hosted by Saudi Arabia, but significant improvements in youth development, league infrastructure, and international competitiveness are needed to make that dream a reality.

Indian broadcasters are nevertheless expecting record viewership for the tournament, with matches scheduled at convenient evening and late-night hours for Indian audiences. The Indian Super League and I-League have helped build a football-watching culture in the country, and the World Cup is expected to further fuel interest in the sport.

As the beautiful game takes centre stage for the next six weeks, fans across India and the world will be treated to the drama, skill, and emotion that only the World Cup can provide. From Mexico City to New York, Toronto to Los Angeles, the world’s greatest sporting spectacle has begun.

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Tickets went on sale on 1 March with prices reaching up to Rs 32,000 for premium categories. The Mumbai leg sold out rapidly, with Delhi tickets in their final allocation phase as resale prices climb on secondary platforms.

More Than Music: The Feeding India Mission

The Feeding India Concert series goes beyond entertainment. The initiative raises funds and awareness for child nutrition and hunger elimination across India. Shakira’s Barefoot Foundation, which supports education and child welfare globally, aligns closely with this mission.

“Performing in India has always been special to me,” Shakira said in a statement. “The Feeding India Concert is about more than music. It is about standing together to ensure every child has access to the nutrition they need to thrive.” The concert aims to support the UN’s Zero Hunger goal by 2030.

Zomato’s growing dominance in India’s food ecosystem extends well beyond delivery. The company’s events arm, District by Zomato, has become a major player in India’s live entertainment space, organising food festivals, comedy tours and now international concert series.

India’s Live Music Boom in 2026

Shakira joins a growing list of international artists touring India this year. India’s independent music scene crossed 10 billion streams in 2026, with labels rushing to sign regional talent. International tours complement this domestic growth by exposing Indian audiences to global production standards and driving investment in venue infrastructure.

Concert Logistics and Venues

The 10 April Mumbai show will take place at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse, one of the city’s most iconic large-format event venues. Delhi’s show will be held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on 15 April. Exclusive 48-hour early access for District app users opened in late February, ahead of general sales on 1 March. District also offered a Buy Now, Pay Later option with 50 per cent upfront and the balance due by 20 March.

Both venues will feature cashless payment systems, dedicated entry lanes and on-site medical facilities. Organisers expect the combined economic impact of the two concerts to exceed Rs 200 crore, covering ticketing, hospitality, travel and local spending.

What This Means for India’s Entertainment Economy

India’s live events market is projected to reach Rs 15,000 crore by 2027. Events like the Feeding India Concert and domestic festivals such as Navratri 2026, which drew record 50 lakh visitors, signal that Indian audiences are willing to spend on premium experiences. Shakira’s tour reinforces India’s status as a must-visit destination for global artists.

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