Shakira, the Colombian superstar known for her global pop anthems, has officially released her highly anticipated 2026 World Cup song, “Dai Dai,” featuring Burna Boy. The track dropped on Thursday, May 14, following a teaser video filmed at the iconic Maracanã Stadium in Brazil. With its infectious beat and uplifting message, the song marks Shakira’s return to the World Cup stage after her 2010 hit “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).”
The title “Dai Dai” comes from the Italian phrase meaning “let’s go” or “come on,” and the song lives up to that energetic call. Shakira and Burna Boy trade verses in English and Spanish, weaving in phrases from Italian, French, and Japanese. The lyrics encourage listeners to overcome hardship and reach the pinnacle of success, with lines like “All the highs and lows / All the tears and the pain / You been there through it all / Been through it all / Just do it again.”
According to Spotify credits, Ed Sheeran contributed as a writer, while Shakira herself produced the track. The song also pays homage to soccer legends such as Diego Maradona, Pelé, and David Beckham, as well as current stars Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Kylian Mbappé. It even lists countries participating in the World Cup, including host nations the United States and Mexico, Shakira’s home country of Colombia, Brazil, France, and others—though Canada is notably omitted.
Beyond the music, the single carries a philanthropic mission. FIFA announced that royalties from “Dai Dai” will go to the federation’s Global Citizen Education Fund, with the goal of raising $100 million by the end of the tournament in July. The funds will be used to provide children around the world with access to quality education and football opportunities.
Burna Boy, the Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, brings his signature Afrofusion sound to the collaboration. Known for hits like “Last Last,” “Ye,” and “Location” with Dave, he released his album “No Sign of Weakness” in 2025 and contributed to the soundtrack of the “F1” movie. His inclusion broadens the song’s appeal across continents.
Shakira’s World Cup Legacy
Shakira first became synonymous with World Cup music in 2010 when she performed “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” at the tournament in South Africa. The song became one of the best-selling World Cup anthems of all time, with over 100 million views on YouTube and countless covers. She also performed “La La La (Brazil 2014)” during the 2014 tournament, though it was not the official anthem. Her return for 2026 has generated immense excitement among fans, as evidenced by YouTube comments praising the new track. One user wrote, “THIS IS GENUINELY HEALING MYY EARS,” while another said, “Shakira saying ‘let’s go’ in many languages is exactly what we needed!!!”
This year’s World Cup anthem arrives after a somewhat controversial lead single, “Lighters,” by Jelly Roll, Carín León, and Cirkut, which aimed to unite the three host countries. The response was mixed, making “Dai Dai” even more anticipated as the official, non-album track. FIFA seems to have doubled down on star power by also announcing that Shakira will perform at the tournament’s first-ever halftime show during the final match on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. She will be joined by Madonna and BTS, marking a historic moment for the sport.
Shakira’s Career and Personal Journey
Shakira’s career spans over three decades, from her early Spanish-language albums to global crossover hits like “Hips Don’t Lie,” “Whenever, Wherever,” and “She Wolf.” She has won multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy awards and is one of the best-selling Latin artists of all time. Her recent years have seen a renewed creative surge, partly fueled by personal changes. After her high-profile separation from former soccer star Gerard Piqué, she channeled her emotions into music, releasing the critically acclaimed album “Shakira: BZRP Music Sessions, Vol. 53” and a series of empowering singles.
In an interview with USA TODAY, Shakira said, “I’m more in love with my career, my profession than ever in my life. I don't know why. I feel like I'm just starting, which is crazy because I've been doing this for 30 years. I don't know, I'm just passionate and motivated. I feel at my best right now. I feel creative. I feel inspired. Motherhood has done wonders on me and I feel like there's so much to do.” She is also preparing for a global tour starting in June, balancing her role as a mother of two with her demanding performance schedule.
Burna Boy’s Rise to Global Fame
Burna Boy, born Damini Ogulu, has become one of the most influential African artists of his generation. His fusion of Afrobeat, dancehall, reggae, and pop has earned him a dedicated international fanbase. In addition to his platinum singles, he won the Grammy Award for Best World Music Album in 2020 for “African Giant” and Best Global Music Album in 2021 for “Twice as Tall.” His collaboration with Shakira on a World Cup anthem underscores the growing global reach of African music and its integration into major international events.
The song “Dai Dai” is already streaming on all major platforms, and early reactions suggest it could become one of the definitive anthems of the 2026 tournament. With its mix of languages, tribute to soccer icons, and charitable purpose, the track exemplifies the unifying power of both music and sport.
Source: USA TODAY News