Shakira and Burna Boy’s ‘Dai Dai’ Voted Best World Cup Song of All Time
In a definitive poll conducted by Billboard, readers have officially named Shakira and Burna Boy’s collaborative track “Dai Dai” as the best World Cup song of all time. The result highlights the enduring power of soccer anthems to unite global audiences through music.
The poll, which was published on June 1, invited fans to vote for their favorite soccer anthem from a curated list of 10 official FIFA World Cup songs released between 1990 and 2026. The selection ranged from the inaugural official song, “Un’estate italiana (To Be Number One)” by Edoardo Bennato and Gianna Nannini, to the modern-day hit “Dai Dai.”
A Victory for Global Collaboration
“Dai Dai” secured the top spot with over 31 percent of the total vote. The track, which blends elements of Afrobeats, dance-pop, world beats, and reggaetón, has been praised for its uplifting message and its ability to capture the spirit of the sport. The song notably pays homage to legendary figures in soccer history, including Maradona, Maldini, Romário, Cristiano Ronaldo, Beckham, Kaká, and Messi.
Shakira, a veteran of the World Cup musical landscape, also claimed the second spot on the list. Her iconic 2010 anthem, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” recorded with Freshlyground, finished a close second with more than 26 percent of the vote.
The Legacy of Soccer Anthems
Rounding out the top three is Ricky Martin’s timeless 1998 hit, “The Cup of Life (La Copa de la Vida).” The song, which became a defining moment in the Puerto Rican artist’s career, garnered nearly 25 percent of the vote. It remains a staple of the tournament, having peaked at No. 60 on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning a Grammy for best Latin pop performance.
Other fan favorites recognized in the poll included “Ole Ola (We Are One)” by Pitbull, Jennifer Lopez, and Claudia Leitte, as well as “The Time of Our Lives” by Il Divo and Tony Braxton. As the 2026 tournament continues, these tracks serve as a reminder of the unique bond between the world’s most popular sport and the music that defines its most memorable moments.
