•Shakira released “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” on July 11, 2010, as the official anthem for the FIFA World Cup 2010 in South Africa.
•The song’s lyrics emphasize resilience, self-belief, and unity, with the phrase “Tsamina mina zangalewa” highlighting African identity and collective spirit.
•“Waka Waka” became one of the most-streamed World Cup anthems globally, blending Afro-beats, Latin pop, and world music.
•Shakira will co-headline the 2026 FIFA World Cup final halftime show in MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, on July 19, 2026, alongside Madonna and BTS.
•She recently released the official 2026 World Cup anthem, “Dai Dai,” in collaboration with Burna Boy.
•Shakira has explored multiple music genres throughout her career and is a multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy Award winner.
•Her performances and music often carry themes of empowerment, passion, and overcoming adversity.
Shakira, the Colombian superstar known as the "Queen of Latin Pop," has left an indelible mark on the music industry with her powerful voice, dynamic performances, and timeless anthems. On July 11, 2010, she released one of her most iconic tracks, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” which served as the official anthem for the FIFA World Cup held in South Africa that year. The song not only topped global charts but also became a symbol of resilience, unity, and the spirit of football.
The lyrics of “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” carry a strong message of perseverance and self-belief, resonating deeply with both athletes and fans alike. Lines such as *“Pick yourself up and dust yourself off, get back in the saddle”* and *“When you fall, get up”* reflect the song’s theme of overcoming adversity. The anthem encourages players to embrace challenges, trust their abilities, and perform under pressure, while also highlighting the collective excitement and global unity of the World Cup. A notable element of the song is the phrase *“Tsamina mina zangalewa,”* an African chant that underscores a sense of identity and shared roots, reinforcing the tournament’s celebration of African culture.
Beyond its lyrical depth, the track’s fusion of Afro-beats, Latin pop, and world music created a universally appealing sound that transcended borders. The song’s infectious rhythm and Shakira’s dynamic vocal delivery made it an instant classic, played in stadiums, on radio waves, and in homes worldwide during the 2010 tournament. It remains one of the most-streamed World Cup anthems in history, a testament to Shakira’s global appeal and ability to craft music that connects with diverse audiences.
Shakira’s influence on the FIFA World Cup extends beyond 2010. Decades later, she continues to break barriers in the entertainment world. In a historic announcement, it was revealed that Shakira will co-headline the halftime show at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, on July 19, 2026, alongside global icons Madonna and BTS. This marks a significant milestone as she becomes one of the few artists to perform at multiple World Cup events, further cementing her legacy in sports and music.
In addition to her live performance at the 2026 World Cup, Shakira recently released the official anthem for the tournament, titled “Dai Dai,” in collaboration with Nigerian artist Burna Boy. The song continues her tradition of blending Afro-beats with pop, delivering a modern anthem that reflects the cultural richness of Africa and the global spirit of football.
With a career spanning over three decades, Shakira has explored multiple musical genres, including Latin pop, R&B, folk, disco, and synthwave. Her ability to evolve while staying true to her roots has earned her numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and Latin Grammy Awards. Whether through her chart-topping hits or her powerful performances, Shakira has consistently inspired millions, using her platform to advocate for empowerment, education, and social change.
As the world eagerly anticipates the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Shakira’s presence—both as a performer and a cultural icon—promises to bring energy, unity, and unforgettable moments to the global stage. From the uplifting lyrics of “Waka Waka” to her upcoming halftime performance, Shakira continues to redefine what it means to be a global superstar.
