Web Desk: FIFA confirmed that Colombian music icon Shakira will return to the tournament stage to perform at the upcoming 2026 World Cup opening ceremony in Mexico.
The global superstar secured her place in football history with her iconic 2010 anthem “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).” Close to two decades later, that song remains one of the most celebrated anthems in sports history.
For the upcoming edition spanning the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 49-year-old singer released a new song titled “Dai Dai,” which fans will hear live for the first time during the opening festivities.
The game’s governing body announced that Shakira will deliver the live performance of the official song alongside Nigerian artist Burna Boy. The highly anticipated show will take place at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City
June 11, starting at 11:30 a.m. CST, just ahead of the opening match between host nation Mexico and South Africa at 1 p.m. CST. Furthermore, Colombian reggaeton star J Balvin and South African singer-songwriter Tyla will also join the star-studded musical lineup in Mexico.
Because three different nations will share hosting duties for the first time, FIFA organized independent opening ceremonies ahead of the initial matches in each respective country.
A day after the Mexican kickoff, Canadian singer-songwriters Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette will headline the Toronto festivities on June 12 before Canada faces Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Meanwhile, pop powerhouse Katy Perry and rapper Future will perform in Los Angeles on the same day before the United States takes the field against Paraguay.
Read more: ‘Dai Dai’ takes over internet as FIFA launches official world cup track
