Summary (tl;dr)

Shakira and the FIFA World Cup 2026 are trending as the tournament kicks off with a historic series of three opening ceremonies across its co-host nations, featuring the global superstar and numerous other artists.

Essential Background

Shakira has a long-standing association with the FIFA World Cup, having performed iconic anthems like "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" for the 2010 tournament and "La La La (Brazil 2014)". Her powerful and globally recognized performances have become synonymous with the world's premier football spectacle, blending sport and diverse cultures through music.

The Full Story

The FIFA World Cup 2026 officially commenced on June 11, 2026, launching an unprecedented "trilogy" of opening ceremonies across its three host countries. The first grand event took place at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where Colombian pop sensation Shakira, alongside Nigerian Afrobeats star Burna Boy, performed the official tournament anthem "Dai Dai". This marked Shakira's fourth appearance at a World Cup, including past opening and closing ceremonies.

Following the Mexico City celebration, subsequent opening ceremonies are scheduled for June 12, 2026, in Toronto, Canada, and Los Angeles, United States. These events are set to feature a diverse lineup of international and local talent, including Katy Perry, K-pop star LISA, Anitta, Future, Michael Bublé, Alanis Morissette, and J Balvin, among others. Mexican-American actress Salma Hayek Pinault also participated as an ambassador for the Mexico City ceremony. The extensive interest in these performances and the tournament's kickoff has driven a surge in related online searches, including some social media discussions surrounding Shakira's appearance during her performance. Shakira is also slated to co-headline a Super Bowl-style halftime show for the World Cup final on July 19.

Why It Matters

The trending keywords underscore the immense global anticipation and excitement for the FIFA World Cup 2026, which is breaking new ground with its multi-nation hosting format and multiple opening ceremonies. Shakira's prominent involvement highlights her enduring global appeal and the significant role of music in uniting diverse cultures through the universal language of football. The star-studded lineup across all three ceremonies is expected to significantly amplify the tournament's cultural impact and viewership, setting the stage for what is anticipated to be the largest World Cup in history.

Geographic Location

• Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico (first opening ceremony and Shakira's performance)
• Toronto Stadium (BMO Field), Toronto, Ontario, Canada (second opening ceremony)
• Los Angeles Stadium (SoFi Stadium), Inglewood, Los Angeles County, California, United States (third opening ceremony)