Shakira has unveiled a teaser for “Dai Dai,” the official song of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the internet has responded with a clear message, saying that nothing beats Waka Waka.
The Colombian pop superstar shared a minute-long clip on social media, writing, “From Maracana Stadium, here is ‘Dai Dai,’ the FIFA World Cup Official Song 2026.” The video was also shared by the official FIFA World Cup account, ending with the message: “We’re ready!”
In the clip, Shakira appears on the field of Brazil’s iconic Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, where she had drawn a vast crowd for a free concert last weekend.
Holding the “Trionda,” the official World Cup match ball, she sings one verse in English alongside Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy, who harmonises with her.
Shakira is joined by dancers dressed in the colours of national teams taking part in the tournament.
The chorus repeats “Dai, dai, we go, dale, ale, let’s go.” “Dai Dai” presumably refers to the Italian for “Let’s go,” while “dale, ale” is a Spanish expression for “Go on” or “We can do it.” The song is set for official release on May 14.
The teaser, however, sent fans straight to the past. Reactions online were dominated by comparisons to Shakira’s “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” the official song of the 2010 World Cup held in South Africa.
“Waka Waka is legendary,” wrote one user. “Waka Waka will forever be the best FIFA World Cup song,” said another. Others were equally direct: “It’s nothing near Waka Waka” and “This is her Waka Waka World Cup song in South Africa 2010 was a bomb! No FIFA official World Cup song will beat the song and performance.”
This is not Shakira’s first time at the World Cup. She also performed at the 2006 and 2014 World Cup finals, making “Dai Dai” her fourth association with the tournament.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on June 11, 2026, with Mexico taking on South Africa at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
