Shakira, Burna Boy to perform official World Cup song at opening ceremony in Mexico City

Colombian pop star Shakira and Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy are set to perform the official anthem of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the tournament’s opening ceremony in Mexico City.

The pair will take the stage at the Estadio Azteca on June 11, just before the opening match between Mexico and South Africa, where they will perform Dai Dai, the tournament’s official song.

According to FIFA, the track celebrates football’s ability to unite people across cultures and continents. The title, an Italian phrase meaning “let’s go” or “come on,” is expected to be a highlight of the ceremony.

Colombian reggaeton star J Balvin and South African singer Tyla will also perform during the event, which marks the beginning of the month-long tournament.

FIFA explained that the song was chosen to capture the energy, passion, and global spirit of the World Cup, adding that Shakira and Burna Boy represent two of the world’s most influential musical voices.

The Mexico City ceremony is one of three planned across host nations. In Canada, Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette will lead celebrations before Canada’s opening match against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto on June 12. Meanwhile, Katy Perry and rapper Future will perform ahead of the United States’ match against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.

Shakira’s return to the World Cup stage continues her long association with football’s biggest tournament, following previous hits such as Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) and La La La. She is also scheduled to co-headline the World Cup final’s first-ever Super Bowl-style halftime show on July 19, alongside Madonna and K-pop group BTS.