World Cup 2026 Kicks Off: Mexico vs. South Africa in Opening Match
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has begun, with co-hosts Mexico facing South Africa in Mexico City. The expanded 48-team tournament features 104 matches across 39 days. While broadcast rights vary, several countries offer free streaming options, making the global event accessible.
Key points
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup commenced on June 11 with the opening match between co-host Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City.
- This year's tournament is the largest ever, featuring 48 teams competing in 104 matches across 39 days.
- The opening ceremony in Mexico City included performances by Shakira and Burna Boy.
- Free streaming options are available in various countries, including the UK, Australia, Brazil, and the US via platforms like ITVX, SBS, and Tubi.
- The tournament is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with matches played across 16 host cities.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially launched on June 11, with the tournament's curtain-raiser featuring co-host Mexico against South Africa in Mexico City's Estadio Azteca. This marks the beginning of the largest World Cup to date, expanding to 48 teams and featuring 104 matches over 39 days, spread across three host nations: the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The opening festivities included a ceremony in Mexico City on June 11, reportedly featuring performances from artists such as Shakira and Burna Boy. The match itself kicked off at 3 p.m. ET (8 p.m. BST). This encounter rekindles a history between the two nations, who also opened the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
Fans around the globe have access to various viewing options. Notably, several countries are providing free live streams of the tournament. In the UK, matches are available on BBC iPlayer and ITVX, while Australia has SBS On Demand, and the US can stream certain games for free on Tubi. Broadcasters like Fox are also providing coverage in the US, with potential for 4K streaming, though resolutions may vary.
The tournament, the 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup, will conclude with the final match on July 19.
Sources
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