Flags, goals, and Carlos Vives: Miami beach turns into a Latin fiesta for World Cup kickoff

Soccer fans gathered on Miami Beach on Thursday (June 11) to watch the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, turning the beachfront into a celebration of football and Latin American culture.

Hundreds of supporters watched the inaugural game from Lummus Park, where Mexican fans sang songs, waved flags and celebrated their country's role as one of the three co-host nations of the tournament alongside the United States and Canada. Many wore national team colors and gathered around giant screens set up for the public watch party.

"It's a beautiful thing," said Miami resident Carlos Nunez, a Mexican fan attending the event. "Watching it here on the beach, what else can you ask for? We live in a beautiful place."

The free event drew fans from across the Americas. Mexican tourist Diana Celis said the World Cup helps bring people together regardless of nationality or background.

"Football is about breaking barriers and borders," she said. "We're all here celebrating together."

Following the match, Latin Grammy-winning Colombian singer Carlos Vives took the stage for a free concert, drawing Colombian supporters who sang along and waved flags as the beachfront celebration continued into the evening.

Miami is one of 16 host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will host seven matches during the tournament.

-Production by: Maria Alejandra Cardona/Reuters