Salma Hayek turns heads in red hot power suit during World Cup opening ceremony

The actress proudly attended the ceremony on June 11 as the World Cup's Global Ambassador and delivered a passionate welcome speech

Salma Hayek poses at the Met Gala wearing a bold red latex gown with pearl shoulder draping, statement earrings, sleek hair, and bold makeup, standing out against a blurred crowd backdrop.

Nova M BajamontiNews and Features Writer

14 hours agoJun 12, 2026, 1:36 AM GMT+1

Share this:

Salma Hayek Pinault wowed the massive crowd at the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony on June 11, 2026, as she delivered a passionate speech and rocked a bold power suit.

The acclaimed actress appeared on stage where she provided warm greetings to the millions of fans in the stadium and watching at home, with the President of FIFA, Gianni Infantino, standing beside her as she proudly held up the gold FIFA trophy that all the soccer players have their eyes on.

Salma Hayek looks on during the opening ceremony prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A match between Mexico and South Africa at Mexico City Stadium on June 11, 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Heuler Andrey/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images) — Salma rocked a bold red look

Salma is the 2026 World Cup's Global Ambassador and she delivered a moving welcome speech ahead of the first match of the competition between the countries of Mexico and South Africa.

The star, who wore a custom Gucci suit and a Boucheron brooch, spoke in Spanish, sharing: "In this stadium, along with Canada and the United States we welcome the 48 flags. Us Mexicans are very honored to be here where the World Cup begins."

Salma Hayek performs in the Opening Ceremony before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A match between Mexico and South Africa at Mexico City Stadium on June 11, 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by MB Media/Getty Images) — Salma loves the sport of soccer

Gianni went on to celebrate the unity of cultures at the global event, expressing: "This opening ceremony in Los Angeles represents the extraordinary scale of what the FIFA World Cup 2026 will become.

"The lineup of artists reflects the cultural diversity of the United States and the vibrancy of its many diasporas, highlighting the nation's rich influence on music, entertainment and pop culture, while showcasing the power of music to bring people together across the country."

Artists such as Shakira, J Balvin and Tyla all took the stage ahead of the first FIFA match. The tournament will take place across 16 cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico, and will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

Salma's love of sports

Salma Hayek attends Day Eight of the 2026 French Open on May 31, 2026 in Paris, France. — Salma recently attended the French Open as well

This isn't the first time that Salma has shown up in a big way for sports.

During the 2024 Paris Olympics, the star took part in the Olympic Torch Relay, walking the torch through the Palace of Versailles, located outside Paris.

The star donned an all-white fit and a sleek bun as she helped continue the long tradition, and later wrote about how moved she was to take part in the extraordinary experience.

Salma Hayek poses during the Paris Olympics torch relay on July 23, 2024 in Versailles, France. Paris will host the Summer Olympics from July 26 to August 11, 2024. (Photo by Lyvans Boolaky/Getty Images) — Salma during the Paris Olympics torch relay

"Yesterday, I had the honor of carrying the Olympic flame, a symbol of light, hope, peace and unity. If you believe in these values, know that you were with me every step of the way," she candidly shared.

She added: "As I passed the torch and took part in the relay, I was proud to represent the enduring spirit of the Olympics – bringing the light, hope and unity to all."