MEXICO CITY: The FIFA World Cup 2026 officially got underway with a colorful opening ceremony in Mexico City, marking the start of what organizers described as the largest football event in history.
According to media reports, a two-member Pakistani delegation led by Syed Mohsen Gilani attended the opening ceremony and official dinner, representing Pakistan at the global football gathering.
The President of Mexico said football leaders from around the world participated in the ceremony and pledged to make the tournament's hosting memorable and exemplary. The president added that all available resources would be utilized to ensure the World Cup's historic success.
Meanwhile, Gianni Infantino thanked the Mexican president for the grand opening ceremony and the country's commitment to organizing the event. He also expressed appreciation to co-host nations United States and Canada for their preparations and organizational efforts.
On the sidelines of the World Cup, the Pakistani delegation held meetings with officials from various national football associations. Gilani discussed matters of mutual interest and opportunities for cooperation with members of the international football community.
More read, World Cup breaks tradition with trinational opening celebrations
Earlier, The FIFA World Cup 2026 will begin with three interconnected opening ceremonies across its three host nations the United States, Mexico, and Canada marking a departure from the traditional single opening event.
The expanded 48-team tournament is being jointly hosted by the three countries, with each ceremony highlighting its own culture, identity, and artistic heritage under a shared theme of unity.
The first opening ceremony will take place on June 11 in Mexico City ahead of the opening match between Mexico and South Africa.
