Shakira will take center stage at the opening ceremony of the 2026 World Cup in Mexico, where she is scheduled to perform the tournament's official song, Dai Dai. The Colombian singer will appear alongside Burna Boy at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on 11 June before Mexico faces South Africa in the first of the competition’s 104 matches, which kicks off at 20:00 BST.
The title of the song comes from an Italian expression meaning “let’s go” or “come on.” The event will also feature performances from Colombian reggaeton artist J Balvin and South African musician Tyla, adding to the entertainment before the tournament officially gets underway.
The opening show in Mexico is part of a wider celebration planned across all three host nations, with ceremonies taking place before the first match staged in each country.
Canada and the United States prepare their own celebrations
Canada’s opening event will be held at BMO Field in Toronto on 12 June. Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette are set to lead the entertainment before Canada meets Bosnia and Herzegovina, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00 BST.
In the United States, spectators at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles will see performances from Katy Perry and rapper Future ahead of the match between the United States and Paraguay. That fixture is scheduled for 02:00 BST on 13 June.
With separate ceremonies arranged in Mexico, Canada, and the United States, organizers are planning a unique opening experience across all three host countries.
Shakira also included in final match entertainment
The World Cup will not be Shakira’s only appearance at the tournament’s opening celebrations. The Colombian star is also set to feature during the halftime show at the final on 19 July.
She will share top billing with Madonna and K-pop group BTS in a performance described as being in the style of the Super Bowl half-time spectacle.
As a result, Shakira is expected to play a prominent role at both the beginning and the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup.