FIFA traditionally commissions an official World Cup anthem and a tournament song for each tournament. These become global hits.
The FIFA Anthem (instrumental)
FIFA has used the same "FIFA Anthem" since 1994. It plays before every WC match — a 30-second instrumental fanfare composed by Franz Lambert. You hear it as players line up in the tunnel and walk onto the pitch.
The 2026 World Cup Song
The official 2026 WC song was unveiled in early 2026. Tradition mixes:
- A globally recognized pop star
- A host country artist
- Latin music influence (especially for 2026 with Mexican co-hosting)
History of memorable WC songs
| Year | Host | Song | Artists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Qatar | "Tukoh Taka" | Nicki Minaj, Maluma, Myriam Fares |
| 2018 | Russia | "Live It Up" | Will Smith, Nicky Jam, Era Istrefi |
| 2014 | Brazil | "We Are One (Ole Ola)" | Pitbull, Jennifer Lopez, Claudia Leitte |
| 2010 | South Africa | "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" | Shakira, Freshlyground |
| 2006 | Germany | "The Time of Our Lives" | Il Divo, Toni Braxton |
| 2002 | Korea/Japan | "Boom" | Anastacia |
| 1998 | France | "La Cup de la Vie" | Ricky Martin |
| 1994 | USA | "Gloryland" | Daryl Hall, Sounds of Blackness |
| 1990 | Italy | "Un'estate italiana" | Edoardo Bennato, Gianna Nannini |
| 1986 | Mexico | "El mundo unido por un balón" | Stephanie Lawrence, Plácido Domingo |
Why these songs become hits
- Played at every match before kickoff
- Used in every TV graphic / preview
- Featured in opening + closing ceremonies
- Global radio rotation for 6+ months around tournament
- Shakira's "Waka Waka" has 4+ billion YouTube views
The Shakira gold standard
"Waka Waka" (2010) is widely considered the greatest WC song ever. Shakira will likely be courted again for 2026 given:
- Her Latin appeal (Mexican audience)
- Her US-based career (lives in Miami)
- Her proven track record
Tournament song vs. anthem
Tournament song = the pop hit performed at ceremonies + in branding (like Waka Waka).
FIFA Anthem = the same instrumental fanfare used since 1994, played before every match.
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Play today's puzzle →Frequently asked questions
What is the 2026 World Cup anthem?
The FIFA Anthem (used since 1994) is the instrumental fanfare played before every match. The tournament song is announced by FIFA in early 2026.
Who sings the 2026 World Cup official song?
Announced by FIFA. Past performers include Shakira, Pitbull, Jennifer Lopez, Nicki Minaj. 2026 lineup confirms in early 2026.
What's the most famous WC song?
"Waka Waka" by Shakira (2010 South Africa). 4+ billion YouTube views — the most viewed WC song ever.
What song did Ricky Martin sing for the World Cup?
"La Copa de la Vida" / "The Cup of Life" — 1998 France.