Nigerian artist Rema, Brazilian singer Anitta, and South Korean rapper Lisa of Blackpink have collaborated on a new FIFA World Cup 2026 anthem titled “Goals” [1].
The collaboration represents a strategic attempt by FIFA to mirror the global nature of the sport by blending K-pop, Latin pop, and Afrobeats into a single track [4]. This cross-cultural approach aims to showcase unity across the diverse regions of the world as the tournament prepares to launch.
The single was released on May 21, 2024 [1]. The artists are scheduled to perform the song during the tournament's opening ceremony on June 12, 2024 [2]. This high-profile performance will take place in Los Angeles, U.S. [2].
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is a joint effort hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. [3]. By selecting artists from three different continents, the organizers intend to create a global anthem that resonates with a worldwide audience, reflecting the scale of the multi-national hosting arrangement [4].
Lisa, known for her global reach with Blackpink, joins forces with Anitta's Latin influence and Rema's Afrobeats sound [1]. The track serves as a primary musical pillar for the upcoming tournament's branding and promotional efforts [3].
FIFA officials said the song is designed to build excitement and energy leading up to the first match [3]. The selection of these specific artists highlights the growing influence of non-Western pop genres in the global mainstream music market [4].
“The collaboration aims to create a global anthem that blends K-pop, Latin pop, and Afrobeats.”
The selection of Rema, Anitta, and Lisa signals a shift in how global sporting events curate their cultural identity. By moving away from traditional Western pop stars and embracing a hybrid of Afrobeats, Latin, and K-pop, FIFA is acknowledging the shifting centers of global youth culture and the immense digital footprint of these genres in emerging markets.
