Hip movements, color and energy marked the participation of Shakira and Burna Boy in the opening ceremony of the 2026 World Cup, held at the Mexico City Stadium. The Colombian performed “Dai Dai”, a song that fuses African and Latin rhythms.
A message of hope from the Mexico City Stadium
Minutes after leaving the stage, Shakira shared a reflection on Instagram. He published an image with the acronym of FIFA, flags of different countries, the audience and a sculpture of the World Cup.
“May this 2026 World Cup pass in peace and be a source of joy and unity for everyone. And, above all, may we remember our little champions who are waiting for opportunities, such as education, so that they can succeed in life,” wrote the singer, accompanying the text with a wolf emoji, a symbol of her “pack.”
Shakira was one of the figures in charge of launching the tournament. Along with her, Belinda, Los Ángeles Azules, Maná, Alejandro Fernández, Andrea Bocelli, Ejae, Lila Downs, J Balvin and Danny Ocean participated. The Colombian’s Latin blood did not go unnoticed: the cameras captured her on the court enjoying “Moviendo la Hip”, a merengue that her brother, Antonio Mebarak, also joined.
The artist explained in an interview with People that “Dai Dai” is much more than a song: “It is a message for all the children who have been told that their dream is too big and to remind us that every champion started as a child who perhaps went through difficulties and struggles.” The lyrics seek to reflect on the difficulties of accessing a good education from an early age. Shakira insisted on the need to put new generations at the center of the dialogue, in a world that she considers increasingly divided.
The performance was not only a spectacle, but a call for reflection on education and support for young people. The message resonated with the global audience that followed the start of the World Cup.
