Mexico hosts the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony

The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins today, spanning from June 11 to July 19, with 48 teams competing across hosts Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Ahead of the opening match between Mexico and South Africa at the Estadio Azteca, a drone show by Nova Sky Stories illuminated the sky with projections of national flags and the FIFA trophy. This marks the third time Mexico has hosted the tournament, and the country will stage 13 matches in total. To maintain security during the event, authorities have launched 'Plan Kukulcan,' deploying 100,000 security personnel including military and police forces. This measures follow recent social unrest involving teachers and protests related to missing persons, as well as violent incidents earlier this year. Despite the high security, local protests are anticipated during the tournament's opening. Nova Sky Stories, established in 2022 by Kimbal Musk after acquiring Intel's 'Shooting Star' division, managed the aerial display. Fans and officials are focused on the inaugural game at the historic Azteca stadium.