FIFA World Cup 2010 Opening Ceremony/Inauguration Pictures in South Africa

The first World Cup on African soil began on June 11, 2010, kicked off by a colourful African-themed ceremony. Before a jubilant crowd at Soccer City, a colourfully dressed cast of African dancers paraded onto the field to start the opening ceremony of the month-long tournament.

Artists perform during the World Cup opening ceremony at Soccer City on 11th June 2010.

Planes fly over Soccer City during the opening ceremony before the World Cup group A match between South Africa and Mexico at Soccer City in Johannesburg, South Africaon 11th June 2010.

Artists perform during the World Cup opening ceremony.

A performer in traditional clothes sings during the opening ceremony.

Nigerian singer Fela Kuti, centre, performs during the opening ceremony.

U.S. performer R. Kelly sings during the opening ceremony.

People watch the World Cup opening ceremony on a big screen at Trafalgar Square in London.

A South African supporter waits outside the stadium before the World Cup group A match between South Africa and Mexico at Soccer City in Johannesburg.

South African football fans wave in joy during an event marking the opening day of the World Cup.

A recording of former South African President Nelson Mandela is shown on a giant display during the opening ceremony.

South African fans cheer prior to the match between South Africa and Mexico at Soccer City.

Mexican fans arrive at Soccer City stadium for the opening match of the 2010 World Cup in Johannesburg.

Supporters of the South Africa team hold up a replica World Cup trophy before the group A match between South Africa and Mexico.

South African President Jacob Zuma, left, and retired Anglican Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa, right, speak prior to the World Cup match between South Africa and Mexico.