The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to commence with the opening match between Mexico and South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. The match is scheduled to kick off at 1:00 PM local time, which corresponds to 8:00 PM British Summer Time (BST) and 9:00 PM South African Standard Time (SAST).
Historic Rematch
This opening clash is a rematch of the 2010 FIFA World Cup’s inaugural game, which ended in a 1-1 draw between the two nations. This match marks South Africa’s return to the World Cup stage, having last hosted the tournament in 2010.
Broadcast Details
Fans in Mexico will have access to a variety of coverage, with 32 matches, including Mexico’s games, available for free on TV Azteca. In addition, full coverage of all 104 matches can be enjoyed via TelevisaUnivisión’s ViX streaming platform, with some content requiring a subscription.
In the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast at 8:00 PM BST, with details available via ITV and the BBC. As noted by Tom’s Guide, this World Cup represents a significant event as it marks Mexico’s return as a host, 40 years after it last hosted the tournament.