Brussels – The selection of Roméo Elvis and Sylvie Kreusch to create the official anthem for the Belgian national football team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has ignited a debate, bringing back memories of a similar controversy from the 2018 tournament. The Belgian Football Association’s decision, announced Wednesday, has drawn criticism due to past allegations against Elvis, while also generating excitement for the new track, “Kiss The Grass (Allez Allez).”
This isn’t the first time the Belgian FA has faced scrutiny over its choice of musical representation for a major tournament. In 2018, the association initially commissioned rapper Damso to produce the anthem, only to withdraw the offer following concerns over misogynistic lyrics in his previous function. Eight years later, the current selection process has once again raised questions about the FA’s vetting procedures and its consideration of artists’ past conduct.
The controversy surrounding Roméo Elvis stems from accusations of sexual assault that surfaced in 2020 during the #BalanceTonRappeur movement. Elvis admitted to “inappropriate” behavior towards a woman who accused him of sexual aggression on social media, leading to the termination of a sponsorship deal with Lacoste. While no criminal charges were filed, the allegations continue to cast a shadow over his public image.
Despite the renewed scrutiny, the Belgian FA moved forward with the selection, pairing Elvis with Flemish musician Sylvie Kreusch. The duo unveiled “Kiss The Grass (Allez Allez)” on Wednesday, a song intended to rally support for the Red Devils as they prepare for the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11th to July 19th. The title itself is an English translation of the phrase “embrasser le gazon,” or “kiss the grass,” a common expression in Belgian football.
The song blends modern sounds with a nod to Belgium’s musical heritage. According to RTBF, the track incorporates elements of 1980s “belpop” and Belgian funk, alongside the psychedelic and lyrical styles of Kreusch and the flow of Elvis. Lyrics include a reference to “12 million friends who don’t always agree,” aiming to capture the diverse spirit of the nation. The inclusion of “Allez, allez” is also a tribute to Elvis’s father, Marka, whose band of the same name was popular in the early 1980s.
The decision has sparked a strong reaction on social media, with many users questioning the FA’s judgment. Some have accused the organization of applying a “double standard,” while others have expressed disappointment that past allegations were not given more weight. Damso himself seemingly acknowledged the situation with a series of evocative emojis posted on his Instagram story.
This selection comes after Roméo Elvis has demonstrated a pattern of collaboration across linguistic and cultural boundaries within Belgium. In late 2025, he released “Jardin” with Oscar and the Wolf, and previously worked with Glints on “Just a Prick” and The Subs on various projects. These collaborations highlight his willingness to bridge divides within the Belgian music scene.
The 2026 World Cup represents a significant opportunity for Belgium to showcase its footballing talent on a global stage. The Red Devils will be looking to build on their previous World Cup performances, having reached the semi-finals in 2018 and the quarter-finals in 2022. The anthem, regardless of the controversy, is intended to be a unifying force for the team and its supporters.
The choice of “Kiss The Grass (Allez Allez)” aims to encapsulate the national spirit and provide a soundtrack for the team’s journey through the tournament. Whether the song will be able to overcome the controversy surrounding its creator remains to be seen, but it is undoubtedly a talking point as Belgium prepares for the World Cup.
The next confirmed action for the Belgian national team is a friendly match scheduled for June 6th against Luxembourg, serving as a final preparation before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Fans can follow official updates and team news on the Belgian FA’s website and social media channels.
What are your thoughts on the new anthem and the controversy surrounding its selection? Share your opinions in the comments below.
