Shakira has unveiled the official song for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking a return to football’s biggest stage more than a decade after her globally celebrated anthem, Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).
The 49-year-old pop star on Thursday teased the new track, titled Dai Dai, through a video posted on Instagram from the iconic Maracana Stadium. The song, which is scheduled for release on May 14, also features Nigerian Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy.
The announcement has generated excitement among football and music fans alike, especially given Shakira’s long-standing connection with the World Cup. Her 2010 anthem, Waka Waka (This Time for Africa), became one of the most successful tournament songs in history. She also had the second theme song for the 2014 tournament with La La La (Brazil 2014) which she performed at the closing ceremony in Rio de Janeiro.
Shakira additionally performed Hips Don’t Lie at the closing ceremony of the 2006 World Cup in Germany, cementing her reputation as one of football’s most recognisable musical figures.
The 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by United States, Mexico, and Canada, will be the first edition to feature 48 teams and is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19.
Shakira’s home country, Colombia, is among the nations set to compete at the tournament, adding another layer of personal significance to the singer’s involvement.
Melissa Enoch
