Shakira has officially returned to the global stage for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, performing the anthem “Dai Dai” alongside Burna Boy at Estadio Azteca in Mexico. According to reports from TVP, this marks the first time a tournament has been co-hosted by three nations—the United States, Canada, and Mexico—with FIFA opting for three distinct opening ceremonies to reflect the expanded scope of the event.
Why is the 2026 World Cup format significant for event production?
The 2026 tournament breaks with tradition by hosting games across three countries, a logistical shift that necessitated a decentralized opening strategy. FIFA confirmed that instead of a single inaugural event, fans would experience three separate ceremonies. The kickoff at Estadio Azteca serves as the first of these, establishing a precedent for multi-national sporting events to distribute cultural programming across host borders rather than concentrating it in one city.
How has Shakira solidified her status as a permanent World Cup fixture?
Shakira’s involvement in the 2026 tournament continues a two-decade trend of the artist anchoring major football events. Her history with FIFA began in 2006 in Germany with “Hips Don’t Lie,” followed by the global success of “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” in 2010. According to interviews with the artist conducted by Brazilian media, she views these performances as deeply personal milestones, noting that she met her former partner, Gerard Piqué, during the 2010 production. Despite their subsequent separation, she has maintained her professional commitment to the tournament series.
Shakira is one of the few artists to perform at three consecutive World Cups between 2006 and 2014. Her track “Waka Waka” remains the most-streamed official World Cup song in digital history.
What are the rumored plans for the World Cup closing ceremony?
While the opening ceremony in Mexico has concluded, industry reports suggest the musical programming will escalate for the tournament final. Sources indicate that Shakira is currently in discussions to headline the closing event, potentially sharing the stage with high-profile acts like Madonna and the members of BTS. If confirmed, this lineup would represent a strategic pivot by FIFA to blend Latin pop, American pop, and K-pop to maximize global viewership figures.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who performed at the opening ceremony in Mexico? Shakira and Burna Boy performed the official 2026 anthem, “Dai Dai.”
- Why are there three opening ceremonies? FIFA implemented this structure to accommodate the tournament’s unique status as the first to be co-hosted by three different countries.
- Will Shakira perform at the final? While not officially confirmed by FIFA, media reports frequently link her to the closing ceremony alongside artists such as Madonna and BTS.
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