Shakira’s World Cup 2026 opening act sparks look‑alike claims and Rai broadcast dispute

Colombian singer Shakira performed the official anthem at the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico’s Estadio Azteca. Shortly after the show went viral, users on X alleged that the performer was a look‑alike, pointing to perceived facial changes and unusually tall platform shoes as evidence.

In Italy, television critic Aldo Grasso questioned why the final minute of Shakira’s performance was cut from the live broadcast. Rai’s communication director and Tg1 chief Gian Marco Chiocci responded, saying the network did not request an early cut and blamed a technical error by a journalist who followed the FIFA schedule, not a bureaucratic “supercazzola.”