Colombian singer Shakira will perform the official World Cup song, "Dai Dai", at the tournament's opening ceremony in Mexico City, FIFA announced on Friday (5 June).
The performance will take place at the iconic Estadio Azteca ahead of the opening match between Mexico and South Africa. The ceremony is scheduled to begin 90 minutes before kick-off.
Shakira will be joined by Nigerian music star Burna Boy for the performance of "Dai Dai", the tournament's official anthem. The title comes from an Italian phrase meaning "let's go" or "come on".
The show will also feature fellow Colombian artist J Balvin and South African singer Tyla, bringing together performers from several regions represented at the tournament.
Shakira is no stranger to football's biggest events. The Colombian singer became closely associated with the World Cup after performing "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)", the official song of the 2010 tournament in South Africa.
Over the years, her performances have become a regular part of major football celebrations, helping to bridge the worlds of sport and entertainment.
Her latest appearance continues that tradition as FIFA looks to build excitement ahead of the competition.
Shakira's involvement in the tournament will not end with the opening ceremony.
FIFA has also confirmed that she will perform at the first-ever World Cup final halftime show, which is due to take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The introduction of a halftime entertainment show for the final marks a significant change for the tournament and reflects FIFA's efforts to expand the event's global entertainment appeal.
With millions of viewers expected to tune in around the world, Shakira is set to play a central role in both the opening and closing celebrations of football's biggest competition.
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