Global pop star Shakira and Afrobeats performer Burna Boy have released “Dai Dai,” the official anthem for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, blending Latin pop and African rhythms in a track designed to reflect the tournament’s worldwide appeal.
The song, launched across major streaming platforms, brings together energetic beats and multilingual lyrics that celebrate football’s global reach. In one verse, the artists highlight competing nations, naming countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Mexico and Japan, underscoring the tournament’s international character.
The release follows a teaser shared by Shakira from Rio de Janeiro’s Maracanã Stadium, where she previewed part of the track while performing alongside dancers. The full version debuted days later, coinciding with growing anticipation for the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Associated Press previously noted that the track features alternating verses from both performers before merging into a joint chorus, creating a call-and-response dynamic. FIFA confirmed the song’s role as the tournament’s official anthem, describing it as a reflection of the competition’s “energy, passion and global spirit.”
Shakira, who previously delivered the widely recognized 2010 World Cup anthem “Waka Waka,” returns to the global stage with familiarity and experience in crafting tournament-defining music. Burna Boy adds a contemporary edge, reinforcing the event’s outreach to younger audiences and diverse markets.
The anthem’s release also aligns with plans for the first halftime show in a World Cup final, scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Organizers have announced that Shakira will headline the performance alongside Madonna and the South Korean group BTS, with creative direction led by Chris Martin.
FIFA said the song will support the Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative aimed at raising $100 million to expand access to education and sports opportunities for children worldwide. The organization indicated that proceeds from the track, along with matching contributions from Sony Music, will contribute to the effort.
Additional World Cup-themed music has also emerged ahead of the tournament. A separate anthem backed by Coca-Cola reimagines the song “Jump,” featuring J Balvin and Travis Barker, illustrating how commercial partners are expanding the event’s cultural footprint.
The release of “Dai Dai” highlights a broader shift in how global sporting events position music as a central part of their identity. By pairing artists from different continents, FIFA appears to be leaning into a strategy that mirrors the tournament’s geographic diversity while strengthening its cultural influence beyond the field.
Shakira’s return signals continuity, linking the 2026 tournament to past World Cup moments that achieved lasting global recognition. At the same time, Burna Boy’s involvement reflects the growing prominence of African music on the international stage, suggesting a deliberate effort to engage audiences in emerging markets.
The introduction of a halftime show further indicates FIFA’s ambition to rival entertainment elements seen in events such as the Super Bowl. This evolution points to a more commercial and entertainment-driven approach that could reshape how future tournaments are packaged and consumed.
Taken together, the anthem, expanded music collaborations and new entertainment formats underscore how the World Cup is increasingly positioned not only as a sporting event but also as a global cultural showcase.
AP
