As the 2026 FIFA World Cup got underway in Mexico, one familiar face once again found herself at the centre of football's biggest celebration. Shakira's appearance during the opening festivities reignited a conversation that has followed the Colombian superstar for more than a decade: why does the World Cup keep turning to Shakira when it wants to create a truly unforgettable moment?
The answer goes far beyond chart success.
For millions of football fans around the world, Shakira is more than a global pop star. She has become part of the tournament's cultural identity. Ever since the release of 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)' ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, her music has been closely associated with the joy, unity, and emotion that make football's biggest competition so special.
Few songs have left a mark on the World Cup quite like 'Waka Waka'. More than 15 years later, it remains one of the most recognisable football anthems ever created. Whether played in stadiums, fan zones or living rooms, the song continues to evoke memories of dramatic matches, national pride and shared celebrations.
A Global Star for a Global Game
What makes Shakira's connection to the World Cup unique is her ability to transcend borders. Football is a global game, and Shakira's appeal is equally international. Born in Colombia, celebrated across Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, she represents the kind of worldwide reach that FIFA seeks whenever it wants to unite fans through music.
Her performances have also consistently delivered the energy and spectacle expected from a tournament watched by billions. While football itself remains the main attraction, major sporting events increasingly rely on entertainment to create memorable experiences. Shakira understands how to command a global stage, blending music, dance and charisma in a way that resonates with audiences of all ages.
More Than Just Nostalgia
The timing of her latest World Cup appearance is particularly notable. Over the past few years, Shakira has experienced significant personal and professional changes. Public scrutiny surrounding her private life has been intense, yet she has continued to reinvent herself as an artist. Her return to a World Cup stage serves as a reminder of her resilience and enduring popularity.
For many fans, there is also a strong sense of nostalgia attached to seeing Shakira involved in football's greatest tournament. The World Cup is built on memories. Every edition creates new heroes while celebrating moments from the past. In that sense, Shakira has become part of the event's history, connecting generations of supporters through music that feels both familiar and timeless.
A Legacy That Continues to Grow
As the 2026 World Cup unfolds, new stars will emerge on the pitch and fresh stories will capture global attention. Yet Shakira's presence at the opening celebrations demonstrated something that few artists can claim. Long after hit songs fade and trends change, she remains one of the figures most closely associated with football's biggest stage.
That is why, when the World Cup wants a performer capable of bringing together fans from every corner of the globe, it still turns to Shakira for its biggest moments.
