Global superstar Shakira has ignited controversy after expressing her support for Argentina and Lionel Messi in a World Cup final, despite her two sons being Spanish and their father being Spanish football legend Gerard Pique. Shakira, who performed her official World Cup anthem at the event, revealed her preference in an interview, stating, "I have two Spanish sons. They are supporting Spain." However, she added, "I'm Messi's friend and I'm also very proud of everything that he has achieved... This ambition that he has, I admire it a lot."
Following the match, which Argentina won, Shakira reiterated her pride in the team and Messi on social media, writing, "To my Argentinians, I am very proud of you, of Lionel Messi, most of all, and thank you for representing all us latinos so well at this 2026 World Cup."
Her comments drew sharp criticism from some Spanish fans who felt she should have supported Spain, given her sons Milan, 13, and Sasha, 11, were born in Barcelona and raised in Spain. Online commentary included remarks questioning her allegiance, with one user suggesting her "hatred for Piqué can do it" and another pleading with FIFA not to let her create more songs. Some speculated that her stance was influenced by her past relationship with Pique.
Shakira and Pique, who met during the recording of her song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, were together for 11 years before their split in June 2022. Rumors of Pique's infidelity surfaced following their breakup, and Shakira released a song in January 2023 that alluded to betrayal. After their separation, the former couple reached a custody agreement, and Shakira and her sons relocated to Miami. Shakira also recently concluded a legal dispute in Spain, where she was cleared of tax fraud charges.
