FIFA World Cup 2026 Canada Opening Ceremony: Start time in India & Where To Watch

Canada’s opening ceremony to commence on June 12.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, football’s biggest sporting spectacle, has arrived after a long wait, with excitement at an all-time high among football fans. The newly expanded tournament, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada, officially kicks off on June 12, marking the return to North America after the 1994 World Cup. It will also be the largest edition to date, featuring a record 48 teams, a massive increase from the previous 32 teams.

For the first time in World Cup history, FIFA has planned magnificent opening ceremonies across all three host nations. The inaugural celebrations are designed to celebrate the rich heritage and identity of each host nation on the international stage. The first ceremony kicks off at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, featuring prominent artists like Shakira and Burna Boy.

The second opening ceremony will take place at the Toronto Stadium in Toronto, Ontario, ahead of Canada’s opening fixture against Bosnia and Herzegovina. These celebrations are set to showcase Canada’s rich cultural diversity and local heritage, as the nation hosts the FIFA World Cup match for the first time in history.

When and where to watch in India?

For Indian viewers, Canada’s opening ceremony will begin at 11:00 PM IST on Friday, June 12, right before the tournament co-hosts face Bosnia and Herzegovina at the Toronto Stadium in Ontario, Canada.

Indian fans can watch the live performance on the Unite8 Sports television network, while digital viewers can livestream the event on Zee5.

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