By Abigail David
Colombian music star Shakira and Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy are set to perform the official song of the 2026 FIFA World Cup during the tournament’s opening ceremony in Mexico City.
The duo will perform Dai Dai at the iconic Estadio Azteca on June 11, ahead of the opening match between Mexico and South Africa.
According to FIFA, the anthem celebrates football’s ability to unite people across cultures and continents. The title, an Italian expression meaning “let’s go” or “come on,” is expected to be one of the highlights of the opening ceremony.
The event will also feature performances by J Balvin and Tyla as part of the festivities marking the start of the month-long tournament.
FIFA said the collaboration was designed to capture the energy, passion and global appeal of the World Cup, noting that Shakira and Burna Boy represent two of the most influential voices in contemporary music.
Additional opening celebrations are planned across the tournament’s host nations. In Canada, Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette will headline festivities before Canada’s opening match in Toronto, while in the United States, Katy Perry and Future are scheduled to perform ahead of the hosts’ opening fixture in Los Angeles.
Shakira’s appearance marks another chapter in her long-standing association with the FIFA World Cup, having previously delivered global hits such as Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) and La La La.
The Colombian star is also expected to perform at the World Cup final on July 19, where she will co-headline the tournament’s first Super Bowl-style halftime show alongside Madonna and BTS.
