Shakira debunks viral ‘double’ claim after World Cup 2026 opening ceremony

During the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico City, Colombian singer Shakira performed the tournament’s official song. Within minutes, users on TikTok, X and other platforms began questioning whether the woman on stage was actually Shakira, sparking a widely shared conspiracy that a look‑alike had been used for some portions of the show. Posts highlighted perceived differences in facial features, hair and movement, and the theory quickly became a top trending topic worldwide.

The speculation was dismissed by Shakira herself and by representatives close to the artist, who affirmed that she sang and performed live throughout the event. Explanations pointed to lighting conditions, stage makeup, hair extensions and camera angles as the reasons for the perceived discrepancies. Despite the lack of verifiable evidence, the theory continued to circulate, illustrating how quickly unverified narratives can spread during high‑profile global events.