World Cup 2026 Official Songs Revealed: Shakira, Andrea Bocelli, and the New Anthem ‘DNA’
May 15, 2024
The official anthem for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is “DNA,” a collaboration between French DJ David Guetta and Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, while Colombian superstar Shakira will perform the tournament’s official song. The announcements, confirmed by FIFA and the official World Cup organizers, mark a fusion of global pop and classical music ahead of the expanded 48-team edition set to take place across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Who Will Perform at the 2026 World Cup?
FIFA and the World Cup organizers have officially named the artists for the 2026 tournament’s signature musical moments:
- Official Anthem: “DNA” – performed by David Guetta and Andrea Bocelli.
- Official Song: Shakira (artist name only; track details pending).
According to FIFA’s official statement, “DNA” was chosen for its universal message of unity and diversity, aligning with the tournament’s theme of We Are One. Bocelli, a three-time Grammy winner, brings his operatic gravitas to the track, while Guetta’s electronic production ensures broad global appeal.
What Is the Message Behind ‘DNA’?
The anthem’s lyrics, written by Guetta and Bocelli, emphasize themes of heritage, connection, and the shared humanity of football fans worldwide. Bocelli told ANSA that the song reflects “the beauty of honest football—a game that transcends borders and brings people together.”
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Shakira’s role as the official song’s performer was announced without immediate details on the track’s title or release date, though FIFA’s press office confirmed her involvement in late April. The Colombian star, a three-time World Cup performer (2010, 2014, 2018), will bring her signature blend of pop and Latin rhythms to the tournament.
Why This Lineup Matters for the 2026 World Cup
The 2026 World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams, doubling the number of matches and expanding the event’s global footprint. The official songs serve as cultural ambassadors, setting the tone for a tournament that spans three countries and three time zones. Here’s how the musical lineup fits into the broader narrative:
- Cultural Representation: Shakira’s inclusion underscores the tournament’s Latin American roots, while Bocelli’s participation highlights the deep historical ties between Italy and football. Guetta’s electronic style bridges generational gaps, appealing to both longtime fans and younger audiences.
- Global Reach: The artists collectively represent over 1.5 billion music listeners across Europe, Latin America, and North America. FIFA’s choice reflects a deliberate strategy to maximize engagement in host nations and beyond.
- Legacy Building: Past World Cup anthems like “We Are One (Ole Ola)” (2014) and “One Love” (2018) became cultural touchstones. “DNA” aims to replicate that impact, with its message of unity resonating in an era of political and social division.
What We Know About the Performances
While exact performance dates and venues have not been confirmed, sources close to FIFA suggest:
- The official anthem will likely debut during the opening ceremony at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey (UTC–4), the host of the tournament’s first match on June 11, 2026.
- Shakira’s official song may premiere at a pre-tournament concert in one of the host cities, potentially Estadio Azteca in Mexico City (UTC–6), given her strong ties to the region.
Bocelli, who has performed at past World Cups (including the 2006 final in Germany), is expected to participate in a high-profile event, possibly the closing ceremony at Estadio Azteca on July 19, 2026.
How This Compares to Past World Cup Songs
The 2026 lineup continues a trend of blending pop stars with cultural icons. Here’s how it stacks up against recent tournaments:
| Year | Official Song | Artist(s) | Anthem | Key Cultural Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | “Light the Sky” | David Bisbal, Rihanna, Maneskin | None | First multilingual anthem; celebrated Qatar’s heritage. |
| 2018 | “Live It Up” | Will.i.am, Rihanna, Nicky Jam, J Balvin | “One Love” | Celebrated unity; performed at the opening ceremony. |
| 2014 | “We Are One (Ole Ola)” | Pitbull, Claudia Leitte, Rihanna | None | First official song in Portuguese, Spanish, and English. |
Unlike past tournaments, 2026 features a separate anthem and song, reflecting FIFA’s emphasis on distinct musical identities for different moments in the event.
What’s Next for the 2026 World Cup?
The official songs will be released in phases over the next two years, with “DNA” expected to drop in late 2024 or early 2025. Shakira’s track will likely follow in 2025, coinciding with the tournament’s official launch. Fans can expect:
- Official music videos for both tracks, featuring footage from host cities.
- Live performances at major football events leading up to the World Cup.
- A global charity campaign tied to the anthem’s proceeds, as seen with past World Cup songs.
For updates, follow FIFA’s official channels or check World Cup 2026’s dedicated website.
FAQ: World Cup 2026 Official Songs
When will “DNA” be released?
According to sources, the anthem is expected in late 2024, though an exact date has not been confirmed by FIFA.
Will Shakira’s song be available before the tournament?
Yes, Shakira’s official song will likely premiere in late 2025, with a full release scheduled for early 2026.
Where can I stream the official songs?
FIFA typically partners with major platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. Updates will be shared on official channels.
Are there plans for live performances?
Yes, both artists are expected to perform at key moments, including the opening and closing ceremonies.
The 2026 World Cup’s official songs mark another milestone in the tournament’s cultural legacy. With performances from Shakira, Bocelli, and Guetta, the event promises a musical experience as diverse as its participating teams. For now, fans can look forward to the anthem’s release later this year and prepare for a summer of football unlike any other.
What do you think of the lineup? Share your thoughts in the comments or tag us on Twitter.
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