The opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup was filled with memorable moments, world-class musical performances, and a production that brought together some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry.
However, one of the topics that drew the most attention after the event had nothing to do with the show itself, but rather with an unexpected theory about Shakira that began circulating on social media.
The Colombian singer was one of the highlights of the opening ceremony thanks to her performance of “Dai Dai,” the tournament’s official song, which has gained popularity in recent weeks.
However, shortly after her performance, some users began to question whether the artist had actually been on stage.
The theory that went viral
Speculation arose when various internet users began analyzing images and videos from the performance. Some users claimed that the person who appeared during the show was not Shakira, but rather an alleged body double hired to participate in the ceremony.
Among the most frequently cited arguments were alleged differences in the artist’s physical appearance. Some pointed out changes in her hair, while others mentioned aspects related to her height, facial features, or certain body movements observed during the broadcast.
Theories began to spread rapidly, and the topic trended on various digital platforms, sparking a heated debate among the singer’s fans and users trying to make sense of the alleged controversy.
In the face of a growing wave of comments and speculation, two members of the performance team that accompanied Shakira during the opening ceremony decided to step in to put an end to the rumors.
The dancers in question are Ángel Fernández and Danna Navarrete, who used their TikTok accounts to respond directly to the rumors circulating online.
Both expressed surprise at the extent to which the theory had gained traction and said they never imagined that such a significant presentation would raise these kinds of questions among some viewers.
“It really was Shakira,” at the World Cup
In videos posted on social media, the dancers were adamant in asserting that the person who appeared on stage was indeed the singer of “Waka Waka.”
In addition to denying the speculation, they explained that they had worked closely with the artist throughout the preparation and performance of the show, so they could confirm firsthand that she was present at the event.
According to their account, they have photographs, recordings, and various mementos from that time to back up their statements.
They also noted that they had the opportunity to talk with the singer and spend time with her during the buzzy events surrounding the opening, which is why they believe the theories circulating on social media are baseless.
Shakira will shine again in the final
While the controversy continues to spark discussion online, Shakira is already preparing for another appearance at the 2026 World Cup.
The Colombian artist is scheduled to perform during the halftime show of the tournament’s grand final, set for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, in the New York metropolitan area.
Their performance is part of a special production designed to bring one of the most significant World Cups in history to a close.
According to information released by the organizers, Shakira will share the stage with other internationally renowned artists during the closing ceremony.
Among the names that have been mentioned are members of BTS and the iconic singer Madonna, who would bring different musical styles to a show designed for a global audience.
With this, the Colombian singer will once again take center stage at an international soccer event, reaffirming the close relationship she has built with the World Cup over the years. Meanwhile, her dancers have already made their position clear: the artist who appeared at the opening ceremony was indeed Shakira, putting an end to one of the most talked-about theories of recent days.
Here you can watch Shakira’s video from the World Cup.
Find out more at ‘QueOnnda.com’.