The anthems that defined tournaments
Some World Cup songs outlast the tournaments themselves. Ricky Martin’s 'The Cup of Life' still echoes in stadiums 26 years after France '98. South Africa 2010’s 'Waka Waka' became a global phenomenon, with Shakira’s track amassing over 3.5 billion YouTube views. Even less successful efforts like 'Live It Up' (Russia 2018) or 'Hayya Hayya' (Qatar 2022) become time capsules—instantly transporting fans back to specific summers. The best anthems marry local flavor with universal energy, like 'La Cour des Grands' for Senegal/Japan/Korea 2002’s blend of African rhythms and French lyrics.
How FIFA selects official songs
FIFA typically partners with major artists from the host nation or global stars. Colombia’s Shakira got the 2010 nod despite South Africa hosting; Pitbull and Jennifer Lopez headlined Brazil 2014’s 'We Are One'. The selection process is opaque, but commercial reach matters—Nicky Jam’s Qatar 2022 track featured in FIFA 23’s soundtrack. For 2026’s three-nation hosting, expect either a multilingual collaboration or separate anthems for the USA, Canada, and Mexico group stages. Past songs have launched during the draw ceremony or in the year before kickoff.
Unofficial tracks that stole the show
Some unofficial songs overshadow FIFA’s picks. New Order’s 'World in Motion' (England 1990) and Fat Les’ 'Vindaloo' (France 1998) became terrace anthems without FIFA backing. Brazil’s 2014 squad adopted 'Tatu Bom de Bola' as their locker-room hype track. Even national broadcasters commission alternatives—the BBC used Embrace’s 'World at Your Feet' in 2006. These rogue tracks often resonate more deeply with fans, especially when teams adopt them during runs like Croatia’s 2018 'Pjevaj Moja Narode' singalongs.
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Frequently asked questions
What was the first official World Cup song?+
'El Mundial' by Los Hermanos Zavala for Mexico 1970, though England 1966’s 'World Cup Willie' was the first tournament-specific track.
Will the 2026 World Cup have multiple songs?+
Likely. With three host nations, FIFA may commission separate English, French, and Spanish tracks or a hybrid like 2002’s 'Boom' by Anastacia.
Which World Cup song sold the most copies?+
'The Cup of Life' (1998) sold over 11 million copies, but 'Waka Waka' (2010) dominates streaming with billions of plays.
Do artists get paid for World Cup songs?+
Yes, through FIFA partnerships, but exact deals are confidential. Artists gain massive exposure—Shakira’s 'Waka Waka' boosted her global profile.
Has a host nation’s artist always performed the song?+
No. Non-hosts like Shakira (Colombia/2010) and Pitbull (USA/2014) have been selected for broader market appeal.
Will the 2026 song feature in EA Sports FC?+
Highly probable. Every official anthem since 2010 has appeared in FIFA games, including Qatar 2022’s 'Hayya Hayya' in FIFA 23.