Shakira found herself at the center of online criticism after revealing that she wanted Argentina and Lionel Messi to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, even though her two sons were supporting Spain. The Colombian singer made the comments before performing the halftime show at the final between Argentina and Spain at MetLife Stadium. Spain eventually won 1-0 after extra time, but Shakira’s remarks continued to dominate conversations after the match. Her support for Argentina, despite her long ties to Spain through former partner Gerard Piqué and their children, quickly divided fans on social media. The interview was given to RTVE, while her message after the game was shared on her Instagram Stories.
Why Shakira supported Lionel Messi and Argentina despite her family’s Spain connection
Before kickoff, RTVE asked Shakira which team she was backing in the final. She admitted that her household was split.“I have two Spanish sons. They are supporting Spain,” she said.After a brief pause, she added: “I’m Messi’s friend and I’m also very proud of everything that he has achieved, because you have to recognize that at age 39, to run the way he does, face 18- and 19-year-old athletes, and score so many goals. This ambition that he has, I admire it a lot.”Although Spain lifted the trophy after a 1-0 win in extra time, Shakira continued to show her support for Argentina. In an Instagram Story, she wrote:“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.”She ended the message by adding:“Always in my heart,”Her comments came as Gerard Piqué, who won the 2010 FIFA World Cup with Spain, and their sons Milan and Sasha were celebrating Spain’s victory from the stands.
Social media reacts as Shakira’s comments spark criticism over Gerard Piqué and Spain
Shakira’s remarks drew mixed reactions online. While some people praised her loyalty to Lionel Messi, many Spanish fans questioned why she did not support Spain, considering her family connections to the country.One social media user wrote, “What a ridiculous woman! Her children are Spanish…but her hatred for Piqué can do it.”Another commented, “Please @FIFAcom, don’t let this lady make any more songs.”A third added, “Has a house in Spain, both kids were born in Spain, but yet Shakira’s twerking for Argentina. Pique did irreversible damage.”Some fans also linked her choice to her breakup with Piqué.One post read, “I think that deep down in her heart, she really, really wanted Argentina to win so she could rub it in her failed ex’s face out of spite, ha.”Another user wrote, “I get that you hate Piqué with all your might but this is ugly, friend.”Shakira and Piqué met while filming the video for Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. They separated in 2022 after 11 years together and later reached a custody agreement. Shakira now lives in Miami with their sons.
