Shakira's performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has ignited a firestorm of speculation, with fans alleging she was replaced by a body double during her set.
The Colombian superstar made history as the first artist to perform at four different FIFA World Cups, headlining the opening ceremony at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
At 49 years old, Shakira delivered the live debut of "Dai Dai," an anthem blending pop, reggaeton, and Afrobeats, alongside Nigerian artist Burna Boy. They ended their set with a chant of "Dale, allez, let's go!"
Decked out in a striking yellow outfit and futuristic sunglasses, Shakira showcased her signature hip-swaying moves with a massive group of dancers while a giant golden World Cup trophy rose from the field.
The stadium erupted with over 80,000 fans cheering, but the broadcast faced backlash due to poor audio quality.
Viewers on Fox Sports were frustrated when the channel opted for studio analysis instead of airing her performance live.
In the aftermath, rumors began circulating that Shakira had been substituted by a body double during her appearance.
Fans pointed out what they perceived as a stumble in her routine, claiming she didn’t move like the Shakira they know. One user remarked, "That’s not Shakira. Watch how she messes up the step when she sings Dai Dai... That’s a double."
Another chimed in, "Doesn’t move her hips like Shakira," while a third added, "It isn’t her, nor her energy."
However, many fans quickly shot down the conspiracy theory. One wrote, "Hahaha, of course. 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 stated, "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 representative for Shakira has been contacted for comment.
Shakira has spent two decades establishing herself as the voice of the World Cup.
In 2006, she performed a special version of "Hips Don’t Lie" with Wyclef Jean at the closing ceremony in Germany. For the 2010 tournament in South Africa, she penned and performed "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)," which became the best-selling World Cup anthem ever.
At the 2014 Brazil tournament, she closed out the competition with "La La La (Brazil 2014)" at Maracanã Stadium.
In addition to her musical contributions, Shakira's role in 2026 includes an advisory position aimed at expanding youth education and sports access globally through FIFA.
