Global music stars Shakira and Burna Boy will lead the entertainment at the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, performing the tournament’s official anthem, “Dai Dai,” at Mexico City’s iconic Estadio Azteca on June 11.
The highly anticipated performance will precede the opening match between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, marking the start of what FIFA describes as its most ambitious entertainment programme ever staged alongside the World Cup.
The Colombian pop superstar and Nigerian Afrobeats sensation will be joined by an international lineup that includes J Balvin, Tyla, Alejandro Fernandez, Belinda, Danny Ocean, Lila Downs, Los Angeles Azules and Mana. The ceremony is scheduled to begin approximately 90 minutes before kickoff.
The official World Cup song, “Dai Dai,” takes its name from an Italian expression meaning “let’s go” or “come on” and forms part of a broader initiative aimed at promoting youth development and education worldwide.
Three Nations, Three Opening Celebrations
In a first for the tournament, FIFA will stage separate opening ceremonies in each of the three host countries—Mexico, Canada and the United States—to celebrate the diversity and cultural identities of the nations hosting the expanded 48-team competition.
The creative direction for the events is being led by renowned Italian producer Marco Balich, who previously worked on major international sporting ceremonies, including the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
Following the Mexico City showcase, attention will shift to Canada and the United States on June 12.
At Toronto’s BMO Field, Canadian music icons Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette will headline festivities ahead of Canada’s opening match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Later the same day, SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles will host the United States’ opening ceremony before the Americans face Paraguay. Pop star Katy Perry will lead the performance, supported by an international cast including LISA, Rema, Anitta and Future.
FIFA says additional performers for both events will be announced in the coming days.
African Artists Take Centre Stage
The tournament’s entertainment lineup highlights the growing global influence of African music, particularly Afrobeats.
Burna Boy’s role as a headline performer at the opening ceremony is complemented by appearances from fellow Nigerian stars Rema, Davido and Ayra Starr, as well as South African singer Tyla.
The artists also feature prominently on FIFA’s official 18-track World Cup album released through FIFA Sound.
Among the collaborations, Rema joins LISA and Anitta on “Goals,” while Davido teams up with Major Lazer and Nelly Furtado on “No Place Like Home.” Ayra Starr also features on the project alongside American rapper Latto.
The strong African representation underscores the genre’s growing international appeal and its increasing prominence on major global platforms.
World Cup Final to Feature Super Bowl-Style Show
FIFA’s entertainment plans extend beyond the opening week of the tournament.
Organisers have confirmed a major halftime show for the World Cup final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Shakira is expected to return for the event alongside Madonna and K-pop group BTS.
The official anthem “Dai Dai” is also linked to a fundraising initiative targeting $100 million for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which supports educational opportunities for children worldwide.
Music, Football and a Message of Hope
Speaking about the project, Shakira said the song was intended to inspire young people to pursue their ambitions regardless of obstacles.
“It’s a message for every child who’s been told that their dream is too big,” she said, adding that success often begins with perseverance and support from others.
The singer also emphasized football’s unique ability to unite people across cultures and borders during challenging times.
As FIFA prepares for its largest World Cup ever, the organisation is betting that a blend of sport, music and cultural celebration will help transform the tournament into a truly global event, bringing together fans from every corner of the world both on and off the pitch.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
