By Our Correspondent

National News – Colombian pop star Shakira and Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy have released “Dai Dai,” the official song for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The anthem was unveiled on Friday as excitement builds ahead of the global football tournament scheduled to hold in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

FIFA announced that the song is now available on major streaming platforms through Sony Music Latin.

According to the football governing body, “Dai Dai” celebrates unity, resilience, passion, and the global spirit of football while supporting the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.

The organisation explained that proceeds from the song will help raise $100 million to provide children worldwide with access to quality education and football opportunities.

FIFA also confirmed that Shakira would donate her royalties from the song, while Sony Music plans to match the first $250,000 generated.

In the track, the singers referenced legendary football icons including Pelé, Diego Maradona, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Mohamed Salah.

Several football nations, including Brazil, Argentina, England, France, Spain, and South Africa, were also mentioned in the lyrics.

The release marks Shakira’s return to the World Cup music stage after her hit songs “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” in 2010 and “La La La” in 2014.

Burna Boy also becomes the second Nigerian artist to feature on a FIFA World Cup song after Davido appeared on “Hayya Hayya” during the Qatar 2022 tournament.

FIFA further revealed that Rema will headline the opening ceremony in Los Angeles on June 12, while Shakira will perform during the tournament’s first-ever halftime show on July 19.