Shakira, the global superstar, headlined the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but now fans are questioning if she was swapped out for a body double during her performance.
The Colombian singer made history as the first performer to take the stage at four different FIFA World Cups. She delivered a live premiere of "Dai Dai," an anthem for the tournament, alongside Nigerian artist Burna Boy at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Shakira, dressed in a striking yellow outfit and futuristic shades, showcased her signature choreography with a massive group of dancers. A giant golden World Cup trophy rose from the pitch as the crowd of over 80,000 erupted in applause.
However, the broadcast faced backlash due to sound quality issues, and American viewers on Fox Sports were frustrated when the network cut away from her performance for studio commentary.
In the aftermath, bizarre rumors emerged online claiming Shakira was 'replaced by a body double.' Fans noted that she appeared to 'stumble' and lacked her usual energy during the performance.
One viewer remarked, "That’s not Shakira. Watch how she messes up the step when she sings Dai Dai... That’s a double." Another added, "Doesn’t move her hips like Shakira." A third observer stated, "It isn’t her, nor her energy."
Despite the speculation, many fans quickly defended her. One supporter laughed off the theory, saying, "Days and days rehearsing just to send in a body double. She’s Shakira and she looks spectacular; like anyone, she gets nervous and flubbed a step." Another commented, "It’s her; we just have to start admitting that she’s no longer the same performer and doesn’t look the same anymore."
A third questioned the validity of the theory: "A lookalike with the same scar on his forehead?"
A spokesperson for Shakira has been approached for a statement regarding these claims.
Shakira has spent two decades establishing herself as a key musical figure at the World Cup. In 2006, she performed a unique version of "Hips Don’t Lie" with Wyclef Jean at Germany's closing ceremony. For South Africa's 2010 competition, she created "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)," which became the highest-selling World Cup song ever recorded.
During Brazil's 2014 tournament, she closed out the event at Maracanã Stadium with "La La La (Brazil 2014)." Beyond her musical contributions, Shakira's role in 2026 includes an official advisory position aimed at expanding access to youth education and sports globally.
