Showbiz

FIFA releases ‘Illuminate’ for World Cup 2026 with Elyanna and Jesse Reyez

The song blends R&B with Arabic melodies, focusing on themes of identity, unity and resilience

Elyanna and Jessie Reyez. Photo: File

FIFA released yet another song for the 2026 World Cup, featuring Palestinian-Chilean singer Elyanna alongside Canadian artist Jesse Reyez. Titled “Illuminate”, the song is part of FIFA’s growing musical rollout for the tournament and has already been well-received online, much like its earlier release.

Fans described the track as a stronger fit for the World Cup setting, giving it a global feel that could make it the tournament’s breakout anthem. The song blends R&B with Arabic melodies, alongside global pop influences, while focusing on themes of identity, unity and resilience.

Produced by Grammy-winning producer Cirkut, “Illuminate” brings together Reyez’s soulful vocals and Elyanna’s signature Arabic sound with Latin influences. Elyanna’s influence is particularly notable, as she becomes one of the few Arab artists to be featured prominently on an official FIFA World Cup soundtrack.

FIFA has framed the song as an ode to music’s power to connect cultures through sport. Elyanna has already hinted at her involvement in the tournament, with a recent social media post suggesting that she will perform at the World Cup opening ceremony in Toronto on June 12.

The World Cup will feature three separate opening ceremonies across the host nations, beginning in Mexico City on June 11, followed by ceremonies in Toronto and Los Angeles on June 12. Elyanna has built a reputation as one of the most prominent young Arab artists on the international stage, drawing global attention after delivering a full set in Arabic at Coachella in 2023. Since then, she has continued performing in Arabic on major international television platforms and collaborating with global music acts.

Before Elyanna’s latest FIFA collaboration, Shakira announced the official 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem, “Dai Dai,” also referred to as “Die Die”, featuring Nigerian artist Burna Boy. The track is scheduled for release on May 14.

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