Salma Hayek Pinault brings star power to Mexico’s World Cup opener
Salma Hayek helped bring star power to the 2026 World Cup opener, giving Mexico’s big moment a Hollywood touch as the tournament kicked off on home soil.
Published Jun 15, 2026 10:36 AM UTC
Salma Hayek Pinault gave the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener a major dose of Mexican star power, stepping onto the pitch in Mexico City before Mexico’s Group A match against South Africa. Dressed in a bold red suit with green accents, Hayek’s look matched the moment: glamorous, national, and built for a global stage. FIFA had announced the Mexican-American actress, director and producer as a World Cup 2026 ambassador, with Hayek set to welcome fans as part of the opening ceremony festivities.
June 11, 2026; Mexico City, Mexico; Actress and FIFA World Cup 2026 Ambassador Salma Hayek Pinault before the match. Mandatory Credit: Eloisa Sanchez-REUTERS — Eloisa Sanchez-Reuters via Imagn Images
The appearance came as Mexico launched the tournament at the famed Azteca, with the host nation opening against South Africa in a rematch of the 2010 World Cup curtain-raiser. The 2026 edition is the biggest World Cup yet, featuring 48 teams, 104 matches and games across Mexico, the United States and Canada.
June 11, 2026; Mexico City, Mexico; FIFA President Gianni Infantino holds the FIFA World Cup trophy alongside actress and FIFA World Cup 2026 Ambassador Salma Hayek Pinault in the stand before the match. Mandatory Credit: Kai Pfaffenbach-REUTERS — Kai Pfaffenbach-Reuters via Imagn Images
June 11, 2026; Mexico City, Mexico; Actress and FIFA World Cup 2026 Ambassador Salma Hayek Pinault before the match. Mandatory Credit: Kai Pfaffenbach-REUTERS — Kai Pfaffenbach-Reuters via Imagn Images
June 11, 2026; Mexico City, Mexico; Actress and FIFA World Cup 2026 Ambassador Salma Hayek Pinault before the match. Mandatory Credit: Kai Pfaffenbach-REUTERS — Kai Pfaffenbach-Reuters via Imagn Images
