Shakira Explains Why She Chose Burna Boy for World Cup Anthem

Global pop star Shakira has revealed that she chose Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy to collaborate on the official 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem, Dai Dai because of his ability to connect with audiences across cultures and his unique musical style. She described Burna Boy as an artist whose sound reflects the global spirit and diversity of football.

Speaking about the collaboration, Shakira said she wanted the anthem to celebrate unity, passion and cultural diversity, values she believes define the FIFA World Cup. According to her, Burna Boy's fusion of Afrobeats with international sounds made him the perfect partner to create a song capable of resonating with fans around the world.

The song, "Dai Dai," was released as the official anthem for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and quickly gained worldwide attention. It was performed by Shakira and Burna Boy at the tournament's opening ceremony and later featured during the first-ever FIFA World Cup final halftime show, further cementing its place as one of the competition's signature musical moments.

Shakira praised Burna Boy's creativity, energy and global influence, saying the collaboration brought together two different musical worlds to produce a song that captures the excitement and inclusiveness of football's biggest tournament. She added that music, like football, has the power to unite people regardless of language or nationality.