This time for FIFA: The best World Cup anthems of all time
These World Cup songs may have been made for the pitch, but they’re still on the playlist
Shakira and Burna Boy collaborated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem. (Junta de Andalucía/Wikimedia Commons)
The World Cup has arrived, but some soccer debates are just beginning. While the best teams and host cities may be top of mind, for some World Cup anthems are a crucial conversation.,
Anthems are as impactful to fans as penalty kicks and underdog victories. The best World Cup songs become time capsules that transport listeners back to iconic summers, unforgettable matches, and celebrations that stretch far beyond the pitch.
Here are my top five, all-time favourite World Cup anthems that belong in the Hall of Fame.
Waka Waka (This Time For Africa)
A classic banger by Shakira that shakes the room when played anywhere. Waka Waka was created for the 2010 FIFA tournament in South Africa.
Waka Waka quickly became a global phenomenon through its blend of pop and African rhythms. The song has an infectious chorus, memorable choreography, colourful visuals, and a message of unity and perseverance.
More than a decade later, it’s still the standard for World Cup music. Waka Waka set the bar high for other artists to even attempt to create a song that connects the world like it did.
If Waka Waka provides the celebration, then Wavin’ Flag brings in the emotion.
While Wavin’ Flag was part of a Coca-Cola campaign during the 2010 World Cup, it became an unofficial anthem.
Somali-Canadian artist, K’naan, created the song through his personal experiences. The song depicts overcoming hardships and resonates with the listeners far beyond football, and it holds a particular significance for Canadian fans.
K’naan helped put Canada on the map with one of the most beloved football songs ever recorded.
Pitbull, Jennifer Lopez, and Brazilian singer Claudia Leitte collaborated for the 2014 FIFA World Cup song We Are One.
English, Spanish and Portuguese blended together to smoothly highlight Brazil’s vibrant culture in its second World Cup hosting gig. The song might have had mixed reviews from fans and critics, but it ended up being one of the most powerful soundtracks creating an energetic memory of the tournament.
One of soccer’s biggest strengths is bringing players and people from different countries together to share the sport’s culture through the love of the game — which was reflected perfectly by this song.
La La La was not the official song of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, but it’s still remembered. It captured the atmosphere of the Brazil tournament.
With colourful visuals, an energetic percussion, and an infectious hook, the song felt tailored for a nation where football is described as a way of life.
By 2014, Shakira was FIFA’s unofficial anthem queen thanks to Waka Waka and La La La.
Despite its recent release, Shakira and Burna Boy’s collaboration for the 2026 World Cup still makes my list. A FIFA anthem with Shakira will always be a hit.
Dai Dai brings together two great artists and combines musical influences from many continents. The global approach is special because this World Cup is hosted by three countries — Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. — making it the largest tournament in FIFA history.
World Cup anthems define an era, spotlight culture, and allow fans from across the world to connect through one perfect melody.
