While performances by Shakira, Burna Boy, and other music stars marked the spectacular opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, Salma Hayek’s appearance also attracted significant attention.
The renowned Mexican actress was not merely one of the ceremony’s guests. She played an important role as an official ambassador for the FIFA World Cup, having been appointed to the position by FIFA at the end of last year. The organization recognized her as someone capable of representing not only the values of football but also the cultural identity of one of the host nations.
Her presence at the Azteca Stadium carried additional symbolism, as Mexico hosted the opening match of the first FIFA World Cup in history to be jointly organized by three countries – Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
Hayek, who rose to international fame through her performances in films such as Frida, Desperado, Dogma, and Marvel’s Eternals, has long been one of Mexico’s most recognizable figures on the global stage. In addition to her successful acting career, she is well known for her humanitarian work and social activism, making her, in the eyes of many, an ideal choice to serve as an ambassador for a tournament aimed at celebrating sport, culture, and unity.
As part of her role, the actress will help promote the World Cup, participate in official events, and engage with fans around the world while representing the tournament’s core values of togetherness, respect, and cultural diversity. Alongside her, Academy Award winner Matthew McConaughey was also appointed as a World Cup ambassador.
Hayek had already generated headlines during the World Cup group-stage draw, when she jokingly urged Americans in a video message to stop using the term “soccer” and instead call the sport “fútbol” – a remark that sparked widespread reactions across social media.
During the same event, she also shared a light-hearted exchange with former England international Rio Ferdinand, encouraging him to relax and trust the process, in what became one of the evening’s most talked-about moments.
At the opening ceremony in Mexico City, Salma Hayek held one of the key ceremonial roles and was among the most prominent personalities present before the match between Mexico and South Africa.
Although she did not perform as a musical act, her presence sent a clear message about FIFA’s ambition for the 2026 World Cup to be more than just a sporting event – a global celebration of culture, identity, and unity among nations.
And when it comes to representing Mexico on the world stage, few ambassadors possess the influence and international recognition of Salma Hayek.
