Mexico kicked off the biggest World Cup in history on Thursday with a 1-0 win over South Africa in front of 80,000 fans at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Julian Quinones scored in the ninth minute, giving the co-hosts an early lead in a tournament that will stretch across the United States, Mexico, and Canada until the final in New Jersey on July 19.

But the action on the pitch was only part of the story. Outside the stadium, fans pushed and shoved as they tried to get into the official fan zone in central Mexico City. Scuffles broke out as crowds swelled for the opening ceremony, which featured Nigerian singer Burna Boy and Colombian superstar Shakira performing the official tournament song "Dai Dai."

The 2026 World Cup is projected to generate a record-breaking $13 billion in total revenue. But ticket prices have sparked widespread anger. Some tickets cost as much as $30,000. FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended the pricing on Wednesday, pointing to a small number of $60 tickets that were made available.

"Our entry price, which is 60 dollars, is the lowest entry price of any of the American sports in the play-off phases," Infantino said. "Our average price, which is below $500, is again the lowest of the American sports on average."

The tournament has also been overshadowed by Donald Trump's immigration crackdown. Somali referee Omar Artan was refused entry to the United States after arriving in Miami. The US State Department said Artan had "associated with suspected members of terrorist organizations." FIFA confirmed he'll play no part in the World Cup.

Infantino played down the controversy. "It's unfortunate what happened to the referee from Somalia," he said. "We don't control everything… Sometimes it's good to chill, relax."

But European football's governing body UEFA took a different stance. On Thursday, UEFA announced that Artan had been selected to referee the European Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa in August. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said: "Football is made to connect people, and UEFA wants to show its respect to Omar and his outstanding officiating skills."

Iran's participation in the tournament has also been a flashpoint. The country is in the middle of a military conflict with the US. Infantino portrayed Iran's presence as a victory for FIFA. "People were saying Iran couldn't come to the World Cup," he said. "There are challenges, it's not easy."

Infantino's close relationship with Trump has drawn scrutiny. But the FIFA chief praised the US president, saying: "Without his engagement and involvement, I think it would have been, simple as that, impossible to organize a World Cup in the United States." Trump confirmed on Wednesday he plans to attend some matches.

The opening day continues with South Korea facing the Czech Republic in Guadalajara. Spain, France, and England are the favourites to lift the trophy. Reigning champions Argentina will rely on 38-year-old Lionel Messi to lead their campaign.

  • 48 teams are competing in the first World Cup hosted by three nations.
  • The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
  • Projected revenue: $13 billion.
  • Cheapest ticket: $60; most expensive: over $30,000.
  • Somali referee Omar Artan barred from US; later picked for UEFA Super Cup.