Shakira Opens 2026 World Cup with Star-Studded Ceremony

The world's biggest sporting event is getting an entertainment upgrade that brings global stars together to celebrate unity through music and sport.

Colombian pop icon Shakira will perform her official World Cup song "Dai Dai" alongside Nigerian artist Burna Boy at Mexico City's legendary Estadio Azteca on June 11. The performance happens just before Mexico faces South Africa in the tournament's opening match. Colombian reggaeton star J Balvin and South African singer Tyla will join them on stage.

This marks Shakira's third World Cup collaboration, following her massive hits from previous tournaments. The phrase "Dai Dai" means "let's go" or "come on" in Italian, capturing the electric energy of kickoff.

For the first time ever, FIFA planned three separate opening ceremonies to honor all host nations. Canada's celebration at BMO Field in Toronto on June 12 features beloved homegrown talents Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette before Canada takes on Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The USA ceremony brings pop powerhouse Katy Perry and rapper Future to SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. They'll perform before the American team faces Paraguay in their opening match.

The Ripple Effect spreads far beyond these opening nights. FIFA designed this multi-ceremony format to give each host country its moment to showcase culture and pride. Fans across Mexico, Canada, and the USA get to experience world-class entertainment in their own cities, making the tournament feel personal and inclusive from day one.

The 2026 World Cup expands to 104 matches across three nations, bringing the global game to more communities than ever before. The festivities culminate on July 19 with a Super Bowl-style halftime show at the final, where Shakira returns alongside Madonna and K-pop sensation BTS.

Soccer and music have always shared the power to unite people across borders, and this tournament transforms that connection into something bigger than a single opening ceremony could achieve.