For Shakira, the thrill of the World Cup goes way beyond the music. In a candid chat with People magazine, the Colombian music sensation spilled the beans on how the prestigious event has weaved itself into her life's fabric. She describes her connection with the world of football as "unbreakable," showing that it's not just about the tunes.
Shakira's World Cup story kicked off in 2006, when she enchanted audiences with "Hips Don't Lie" alongside Wyclef Jean. But it was in 2010 that "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" truly placed her in the World Cup hall of fame. She continued to rock the stage in 2014 with "La La La (Brazil 2014)," solidifying her iconic status. With each tournament, she pens tracks that become classics, leaving her melodic imprint on the competition.
"I think they were born because of that song," Shakira fondly shares about her sons, Milan and Sasha, often calling them her "Waka kids."
The story took a personal turn during the 2010 World Cup when Shakira met Gerard Piqué, a star player at the time, igniting a romance that led to the birth of their two sons, Milan, 13, and Sasha, 11. She lovingly refers to them as her "Waka kids," emphasizing how destiny played a role in her life, both musically and personally.
Speaking of her World Cup attraction, Shakira says it's simply "destiny." Every edition holds a unique magic for her, like in 2014 when her fans cunningly deduced her pregnancy with Sasha during a performance. These treasured memories strengthen her bond with the tournament, highlighting her eternal love for the event.
Fast forward to 2026, and Shakira is back at center stage. She's already performed "Dai Dai," the official anthem of the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, with Burna Boy at the opening match. But wait, there's more! She'll make history by taking part in the first-ever halftime show, sharing the stage with Madonna and BTS during the final in July.
With global hits, a life-altering encounter, and the cherished joy of motherhood, Shakira's connection with the FIFA World Cup is nothing short of extraordinary. It's a football romance she doesn't seem to be stepping away from anytime soon.