Colombian superstar Shakira and Nigerian Afrobeats heavyweight Burna Boy will lead the musical celebrations at the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico.
The pair are scheduled to perform the tournament’s official song, “Dai Dai,” at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11 before hosts Mexico face South Africa in the first match of the competition. The song’s title comes from an Italian phrase commonly used to mean “come on” or “let’s go.”
Also appearing during the ceremony are Colombian reggaeton sensation J Balvin and South African singer Tyla, adding international flavour to the event.
The World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada, will feature opening celebrations in each of the three host nations before their respective opening fixtures.
In Canada, renowned musicians Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette will headline festivities at BMO Field in Toronto ahead of Canada’s encounter with Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 12.
Across the border in the United States, pop icon Katy Perry and rapper Future are set to entertain fans at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles before the Americans take on Paraguay later that day.
Shakira’s involvement in the tournament will extend beyond the opening ceremony. The Colombian singer is also expected to perform at the World Cup final on July 19, where she will share the stage with Madonna and K-pop group BTS during a Super Bowl-inspired halftime show.
