Anti-government protesters clash with riot police outside World Cup opener while Shakira performs inside

Violence erupted outside the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony in Mexico City on Thursday as anti-government protesters clashed with riot police outside Estadio Azteca.

As fans and FIFA executives watched the festivities, heavily armed officers outside struggled to keep a growing crowd of protesters under control. The clashes unfolded while pop star Shakira performed during the opening ceremony inside the stadium.

The situation escalated into a physical confrontation.

Protesters hurled objects at security forces...