Estadio Azteca Opener: Gate Times, What You Can Bring, and the Ceremony Lineup
The World Cup opens on June 11 with Mexico against South Africa at Estadio Azteca. Organizers say gates open at 9 a.m. local time for a 1 p.m. kickoff, a clear-bag policy is in force, and Shakira headlines an opening ceremony themed around papel picado.
T he World Cup opens on June 11 with Mexico against South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, preceded by an opening ceremony. Here is what organizers have said about gate times, what you can and cannot bring, and who is performing.
Gate times
Organizers say the gates open at 9 a.m. local time, well before the 1 p.m. kickoff, so fans can clear security and enjoy pre-match activities inside. The opening ceremony is set to begin around 11 a.m. Authorities are urging fans to arrive early because of security screening and the large crowds expected. Confirm the latest timings through official FIFA channels before you set out.
What you can bring
A clear-bag policy is in force. According to organizers, permitted items include a clear plastic or PVC bag up to about 30 by 15 by 30 cm, a small clutch up to about 11 by 16.5 cm, a phone for personal photos and videos, medication in its original packaging or with a prescription, baby supplies such as formula and diapers, and flags or banners up to 2 m by 1.5 m. Per-stadium rules can still change, so check the official policy before travelling.
What you cannot bring
Prohibited items include standard backpacks, suitcases and opaque or oversized bags; outside food and drink, glass, cans and metal thermoses; weapons of any kind, tools and sharp objects; flares, fireworks and aerosols; vuvuzelas, air horns, drums, whistles and portable speakers; professional cameras, video cameras, tripods and selfie sticks; umbrellas, masks, helmets and costumes; laser pointers; clothing or banners promoting non-sponsor brands; soccer balls, seat cushions and folding stools; and tobacco products. Banned items may be confiscated and entry can be refused to anyone who does not comply.
The opening ceremony
The ceremony is built around papel picado, the traditional Mexican perforated-paper craft. Shakira headlines, performing the official tournament song "Dai Dai" live for the first time alongside afrobeats star Burna Boy. Mexican acts include Alejandro Fernández, Lila Downs, Maná, Belinda and Los Ángeles Azules, with Colombia's J Balvin, Venezuela's Danny Ocean and South Africa's Tyla also on the bill.
Reporting: Bibiana Palacios, June 10, 2026, with World Cup organizers.