Global music icons are set to take center stage when the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins, with Colombian singer Shakira and Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy confirmed to perform the tournament’s official anthem during the opening ceremony in Mexico City.
The duo will appear at Estadio Azteca on June 11, moments before the opening fixture between Mexico national football team and South Africa national football team.
Their performance will feature Dai Dai, the official song chosen to launch football’s biggest international competition.
FIFA Unveils Anthem Celebrating Global Unity
According to FIFA, the newly released anthem was created to reflect the unifying influence of football across different cultures and regions of the world.
The governing body described the track as a tribute to the sport’s ability to bring people together regardless of geography or background.
The song’s title, Dai Dai—an Italian expression commonly used to mean “come on” or “let’s go”—is expected to play a central role in the opening festivities and serve as one of the signature moments of the ceremony.
Additional Performers Join Mexico Celebration
The entertainment lineup for the Mexico City event will extend beyond the headline act.
Colombian reggaeton star J Balvin and South African singer-songwriter Tyla are also scheduled to perform as part of the opening show that launches the month-long tournament.
FIFA said the selection of performers was designed to capture the excitement, diversity, and worldwide appeal that define the World Cup.
The organization highlighted the influence of Shakira and Burna Boy as artists whose music resonates with audiences across multiple continents.
Host Nations Prepare Separate Opening Events
The 2026 tournament will feature opening celebrations in each of its host countries.
In Canada, acclaimed Canadian musicians Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette will lead festivities in Toronto before Canada’s first match against Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team on June 12.
In the United States, pop star Katy Perry and rapper Future are set to entertain fans at SoFi Stadium ahead of the American team’s clash with Paraguay national football team.
Shakira Strengthens Her World Cup Legacy
The upcoming appearance marks another chapter in Shakira’s long-running connection with the World Cup.
The singer previously achieved worldwide success through tournament songs including Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) and La La La, both of which became closely associated with football’s premier event.
Her involvement will not end with the opening ceremony.
FIFA has also scheduled the Colombian star to appear at the World Cup final on July 19, where she is expected to co-headline the competition’s first Super Bowl-style halftime show alongside Madonna and K-pop supergroup BTS.
Music Takes Center Stage at Expanded 2026 Tournament
With performances planned across Mexico, Canada, and the United States, FIFA is placing a strong emphasis on entertainment as part of the expanded 2026 World Cup experience.
The opening ceremonies are expected to blend football and music on an unprecedented scale, bringing together internationally recognized performers as the tournament gets underway.
