Every four years, FIFA transforms the World Cup into a global celebration uniting billions of people. Music has been the secret ingredient, turning tournament stress into excitement and creating memories that last long after the final whistle.
These songs didn’t just echo through stadiums — they topped charts, sparked dance crazes, and became the soundtrack to football’s greatest moments. Here are the iconic World Cup anthems that made history.
The Cup of Life by Ricky Martin – 1998
Ricky Martin’s “The Cup of Life” defined France 1998, changing how the world viewed World Cup music. Its infectious “Go, Go, Go, Allez, Allez, Allez” chant became the sound of football joy. The song topped charts in over a dozen countries including France, Spain, and Sweden, and sold more than 6 million copies worldwide.
Watch Ricky Martin’s iconic “The Cup of Life” music video, performed live at the France 1998 World Cup.
We Are the Champions by Queen – 1994
Although never commissioned by FIFA, Queen’s classic became USA 94’s defining anthem through widespread stadium use and TV broadcasts. FIFA records confirm it played in nearly 90% of matches, reaching over 400 million viewers during the tournament.
Watch Queen’s timeless “We Are the Champions,” the unofficial anthem of the 1994 World Cup.
Boom by Anastacia – 2002
FIFA selected Anastacia’s “Boom” as the official anthem for Korea-Japan 2002. Despite her strong vocals, it peaked at #13 in the UK and #22 in Germany, selling around 2 million copies globally — far less impactful than other World Cup songs.
Hips Don’t Lie by Shakira – 2006
Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie” wasn’t the official anthem but became Germany 2006’s unofficial soundtrack. It hit #1 in 18 countries and electrified the final ceremony watched by over 700 million people, cementing Shakira as a World Cup star.
Watch Shakira’s high-energy “Hips Don’t Lie” live performance, a highlight of Germany 2006.
Waka Waka by Shakira – 2010
Shakira’s “Waka Waka” was the official anthem for South Africa 2010 and became the most successful World Cup song ever. It sold nearly 10 million units, peaked at #38 on the Billboard Hot 100, and its YouTube video has over 3.6 billion views.
Watch the official video for “Waka Waka,” Shakira’s chart-topping 2010 World Cup anthem.
Wavin’ Flag by K’naan – 2010
K’naan’s “Wavin’ Flag” was Coca-Cola’s campaign song for 2010, becoming an unofficial anthem resonating across Africa. It reached #2 in Canada and the top 5 in several European markets, with over 500 million streams globally.
Watch K’naan’s uplifting “Wavin’ Flag,” Coca-Cola’s anthem for the 2010 World Cup.
We Are One by Pitbull, Jennifer Lopez & Claudia Leitte – 2014
FIFA’s Brazil 2014 anthem, “We Are One (Ole Ola),” brought together Pitbull, Jennifer Lopez, and Claudia Leitte. Performed at the opening ceremony viewed by over 1 billion people, it captured Brazil’s vibrant football spirit and reached the top 10 in Brazil and other markets.
Watch the official music video for “We Are One (Ole Ola),” the anthem of the 2014 World Cup.
Vida by Ricky Martin – 2014
Ricky Martin returned for Brazil 2014 with “Vida,” a lively Latin pop track featured on FIFA’s official album, reconnecting with fans from France ’98 while reaching new audiences.
Watch Ricky Martin’s “Vida,” his comeback World Cup song for Brazil 2014.
Live It Up by Nicky Jam feat. Will Smith & Era Istrefi – 2018
Russia 2018’s official anthem, “Live It Up,” featured Nicky Jam, Will Smith, and Era Istrefi, blending reggaeton with global pop to create an upbeat tournament soundtrack reflecting modern streaming trends.
Watch “Live It Up,” the official song of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
Colors by Jason Derulo – 2018
“Colors” by Jason Derulo was Coca-Cola’s promotional song for Russia 2018, emphasizing unity and diversity. It gained strong traction on streaming platforms and social media.
Watch Jason Derulo’s “Colors,” Coca-Cola’s anthem for the 2018 World Cup.
Hayya Hayya by Trinidad Cardona, Davido & Aisha – 2022
Qatar 2022’s lead anthem, “Hayya Hayya (Better Together),” united American, Nigerian, and Qatari artists. Its Arabic title means “let’s go,” symbolizing cultural inclusion and regional pride. It achieved strong streaming success and topped charts in several Gulf countries.
Watch the official video for “Hayya Hayya,” the anthem of the Qatar 2022 World Cup.
Tukoh Taka by Myriam Fares – 2022
Myriam Fares’ “Tukoh Taka” was the FIFA Fan Festival anthem for Qatar 2022, introducing traditional Arabic music and dance elements to millions of viewers worldwide.
Watch “Tukoh Taka” by Myriam Fares, the FIFA Fan Festival anthem of Qatar 2022.
These anthems prove that World Cup songs do more than promote a tournament — they create global moments that unite fans across languages and cultures. Each has added its own chapter to football’s rich musical legacy.
