Popular singer Shakira is currently in South Africa preparing for the World Cup kickoff. The Colombian artist looked cheerful and relaxed in jeans, heels, and a stylish leather jacket as she made her way through the Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. The 33-year-old songstress is all set to hit the stage to perform the official World Cup anthem, Waka Waka, at the star-studded Kick-Off Celebration concert in Soweto on Thursday, just before the tournament’s opening match.
Heading to South Africa, Shakira is all prepared to headline the Kick-Off Celebration Concert on Thursday before the World Cup kicks off.
Shakira, the Colombian singer, seemed to be in high spirits and relaxed following her flight. Her arrival today caused quite a commotion in the host nation, as authorities worked hard to ensure her safety amidst the enthusiastic fans who gathered at the airport to also greet Germany’s football team. Reflecting on her decision to perform the official tournament anthem, Shakira expressed, “The FIFA World Cup is a remarkable display of global excitement, bringing together every country, ethnicity, religion, and social status with a shared passion. It symbolizes an occasion that has the ability to unite and harmonize, which is exactly what this song embodies.”
Protected: Police officers surrounded Shakira to stop her enthusiastic fans from getting too close.
In the midst of a crowd of excited fans clamoring for a glimpse of her, Shakira remained calm and collected in the spotlight. She shared, “This song captures the excitement and passion that soccer ignites in people.” Joining her at the Kick-Off concert were renowned artists such as Alicia Keys, the Black Eyed Peas, John Legend, the Parlotones, Hugh Masekela, and Freshlyground. FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke commented, “We are excited to kick off the first FIFA World Cup in Africa with such a grand concert featuring exceptional talent. It showcases the universal appeal of football and music, setting the stage for a celebration to begin the competition on a high note.”
Shakira, the popular performer, recently amazed the audience at the Rock in Rio festival in Madrid, Spain. However, amidst the excitement surrounding the World Cup in South Africa, there was also a somber note with the tragic passing of South African singer Siphiwe Ntshabe. Known as the ‘Black Pavarotti’, Ntshabe was scheduled to perform at the opening ceremony selected by President Nelson Mandela to sing his anthem Hope. Unfortunately, he passed away on May 26, just days before he was set to sing in front of a massive audience of two billion people. The 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa is set to kick off on Friday, with the opening match between South Africa and Mexico. The coverage of this match will start at 2:30 pm on ITV1, leading up to the 3 pm kick-off. Among the celebrities arriving for the Kick-Off Celebration concert is Shakira, ready to bring her star power to the event.
