World Cup Opening Ceremony Set for Global Music Explosion as Shakira and Burna Boy Lead Lineup

(Cover of Dai Dai ft. Burna Boy. Credit: Punch News)

Colombian pop icon Shakira and Nigerian Afrobeats star Burna Boy will headline the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, performing the tournament’s official anthem at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11.

The pair will take the stage ahead of the opening match between Mexico and South Africa, performing Dai Dai an Italian phrase meaning “let’s go” or “come on.” FIFA described the song as a celebration of football’s ability to unite people across cultures and continents, saying the two artists represent some of the most influential musical voices in the world.

Colombian reggaeton star J Balvin and South African singer-songwriter Tyla will also perform at the Mexico City ceremony.

Opening celebrations are also planned across the tournament’s other two host nations.

In Canada, Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette will perform ahead of Canada’s opening match against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto on June 12, while Katy Perry and rapper Future will headline the ceremony before the United States take on Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.

Shakira’s appearance marks another chapter in her enduring association with the World Cup, having previously delivered iconic tournament anthems including Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) and La La La.

She is also set to co-headline the tournament’s first-ever Super Bowl-style halftime show at the World Cup final on July 19, alongside Madonna and K-pop group BTS.