Angel Delgado – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup officially ignited on Wednesday evening (June 10) in Mexico City. Renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli headlined the spectacular FIFA Countdown Concert at the Auditorio Nacional, moving the audience with a soaring rendition of “Nelle Tue Mani (Now We Are Free),” the beloved theme from Gladiator.
The star-studded event served as a global prelude to the tournament, bridging three host nations—Mexico, the United States, and Canada—under the unifying banner: “Three cities. One concert. One world united by football and music.” Alongside Bocelli, the stage featured vibrant performances from cumbia icons Los Ángeles Azules, pop sensation Belinda, and the gifted singer-songwriter Elena Rose.
The atmosphere was further electrified by the presence of football legends, including Bebeto, Cafu, Mario Kempes, and Marco Materazzi, who proudly presented the championship trophy that will ultimately be hoisted by the victors of this historic three-country tournament.
Musical highlights continued as Los Ángeles Azules and Belinda teamed up for “Por Ella,” a standout track from the Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Album, alongside their infectious hit “Amor a Primera Vista.” Elena Rose also delivered a powerful performance of her anthem, “Me Lo Merezco,” leaving a lasting impression on the crowd.
The festivities spanned across North America, with Bryan Adams keeping the momentum high in Toronto with classics like “Summer of ’69,” accompanied by performances from AHI, Wyclef Jean, Nora Fatehi, and The Beaches. Meanwhile, Los Angeles hosted a dynamic set featuring Davido, Major Lazer, Ava Max, and BIA.
The energy in Mexico City remained high during the subsequent México Vibra concert, which celebrated the local spirit. The evening featured a breathtaking premiere of “Monarca Mundial” by the Orquesta Sinfónica de Minería, followed by emotive performances from Mexican icons including Lucero, Carlos Rivera, and Carla Morrison, who honored classic tracks like “Sabor a Mí” and “El Triste.”
The night reached a fever pitch when Regional Mexican superstar Carín León closed the event, delivering a stirring version of the ranchera standard “El Rey.”
The excitement culminates on Thursday (June 11) with the World Cup opening ceremony at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca. Fans can look forward to a headline performance by Shakira and Burna Boy, who will debut their official 2026 World Cup anthem, “Dai Dai.” The ceremony will also showcase a stellar lineup including Alejandro Fernández, Maná, J Balvin, Belinda, and Tyla, setting the stage for the opening match between Mexico and South Africa.
