2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off with Shakira at 1st of 3 opening ceremonies

Key Points:

• The 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup, the largest in history with 48 teams, is being hosted jointly by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, featuring 16 stadiums across 11 cities and three separate opening ceremonies.
• Opening ceremonies include performances by global artists like Shakira, Burna Boy, Alanis Morissette, and Katy Perry, reflecting the cultural diversity of the host nations.
• Security is heightened with FBI tactical teams deployed in multiple cities and Immigration and Customs Enforcement focusing on national security, amid concerns such as the barring of a Somali referee from entering the U.S.
• FIFA has adjusted its stadium policies to allow one soft, factory-sealed water bottle per spectator due to heat concerns, while ticket prices have been criticized as prohibitively expensive by fans.
• Betting experts highlight the Netherlands as a strong contender due to their balanced team and defense, while the U.S. team faces challenges with competition from other sports domestically but has a favorable group stage draw.