The opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar has excited fans, featuring performances by globally renowned artists.

The festivity at Al Bayt Stadium on Sunday commenced with a video of whale sharks, which symbolize fortune and prosperity.

Oscar-winning US actor Morgan Freeman addressed the crowd. He said, "Football spans the world, unites nations in their love of the beautiful game."

Official mascots of the past 14 World Cups between 1966 and 2018 emerged, followed by the one for the current tournament. It is called La'eeb, an Arabic word for a super-skilled player.

Jung Kook, a member of K-pop boy band BTS, performed the song for the 2022 World Cup alongside Qatari musician Fahad Alkubaisi.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Qatar's Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, delivered speeches.

Spectators took photos and clapped to music during the ceremony, which wrapped up with fireworks.

Thirty-two teams compete in the tournament, which runs for 29 days through December 18. Matches will take place at eight venues in five cities, including the capital, Doha.