Shakira to Debut New World Cup Anthem at 2026 Opening Ceremony

The International Football Federation (FIFA) has announced that Colombian superstar Shakira will perform the official song for the 2026 World Cup, titled “Dai Dai,” at the tournament’s opening ceremony scheduled for tomorrow in Mexico.

The ceremony is expected to feature a spectacular artistic display that celebrates diverse cultures from around the world, with performances from renowned global artists alongside Shakira, including Nigerian star Burna Boy, Colombian artist J Balvin, and South African singer Tyla.

The new song “Dai Dai” carries a special meaning, translating to “Let’s go” in Italian. Its significance extends beyond entertainment; it is also tied to a global humanitarian campaign launched by FIFA aimed at supporting education and providing sports opportunities for children worldwide. This initiative adds a sense of solidarity to the event, transcending competitive sports.

Shakira: A World Cup Icon with Four Historic Appearances

Shakira is set to write a new chapter in her historical relationship with the World Cup as she prepares for her anticipated appearance in the 2026 edition. This will mark her fourth performance at the world’s biggest football event over two decades, making her one of the most closely associated artists with the tournament.

Her journey began at the 2006 World Cup in Germany, where she captured global attention during the closing ceremony with her hit song “Hips Don’t Lie,” marking her true debut on the World Cup stage.

In South Africa 2010, she reached new heights of global influence with her official song “Waka Waka,” which became a cultural phenomenon thanks to its African rhythms and choreography that have become iconic in World Cup history.

Shakira’s presence continued in Brazil 2014, where she performed “La La La” at the Maracanã Stadium during the closing ceremony, receiving widespread audience engagement that solidified her status as one of the standout stars of World Cup performances.

As she prepares for North America’s 2026 edition, Shakira is on track to achieve a new record with her fourth appearance after a 12-year hiatus from the World Cup stage, further establishing herself as an artistic icon linked to the history of this event across generations.