The wait is over. This Thursday, June 11, Mexico City will become the global spotlight as the World Cup kicks off, bringing together millions of fans for weeks filled with excitement, goals, and passion for the world’s most beloved sport.

The opening ceremony is set to begin around 11:30 a.m. (Central Mexico Time), followed by the first match at 1:00 p.m., when the Mexican national team takes the field against South Africa.

You can catch both the ceremony and the opening game for free on broadcast TV and digital platforms, making it easy to join the celebration from anywhere in the country. Coverage will be available on Canal 5, Azteca 7, TUDN sports channels, and the streaming platform ViX.

Key details:
– Date: Thursday, June 11
– Ceremony start: 11:30 a.m. (Central Mexico Time)
– Match kickoff: 1:00 p.m.
– Where to watch: Canal 5, Azteca 7, TUDN, ViX

The musical lineup promises a vibrant mix of national and international talent, featuring pop, regional Mexican, urban, and Latin rhythms. Highlights include Belinda, Maná, Los Ángeles Azules, J Balvin, Tyla, Lila Downs, Danny Ocean, and the standout duo Shakira and Bruna Boy, who will set the mood before the tournament officially begins.

Beyond the stadium, public squares and plazas across Mexico will host giant screens, inviting families and fans to gather and soak up the electric World Cup atmosphere together.

This edition of the World Cup is historic—not only for the number of participating teams but also because it’s hosted jointly by three North American countries. This unique setup offers millions an unprecedented chance to experience international soccer like never before.