On March 20, 2026, FIFA officially announced the first song in the official album of the 2026 World Cup with the message: "The largest ever official album #FIFAWorldCup's first song has been released." Attached to the announcement is a short video called "Lighter", featuring Jelly Roll and Carín León.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19 in the US, Canada and Mexico.
The information that Jelly Roll is the main vocalist of the song "Lighter" quickly created mixed reactions: from the initial excitement of fans, the expectation of a brilliant start for the biggest tournament on the planet quickly turned into a strong wave of criticism.
Unlike previous World Cup songs, "Lighter" shifted from vibrant pop to mid-tempo country-rock music, causing many fans to compare the song with classic hits such as Shakira's "Waka Waka" or K'naan's "Wavin' Flag".
On social networks, a fan angrily wrote: "Imagine there are thousands of the best artists in the world, a lineup of superstars of all genres, along with the most talented producers... and this is the best song that North America can dedicate?
Another fan shared a Wavin' Flag video and commented on "Lighter: "Send this article to your creative design team, then go back to the drawing board and try again.
While many people criticize, some try to explain: “‘Lighter’ blends American country music, rock and Mexican sounds, aiming to connect the 3 host countries - the US, Canada and Mexico - through a multicultural music space, symbolizing the connection between cultures.”
However, fans still strongly compare it to previous World Cup songs. One person commented: "Nothing can compare to the atmosphere of 2010... but this song is impossible. " Another person added: "Sorry, but you cannot replace Wavin' Flag or Waka Waka - they will forever be number 1 in the hearts of fans.
Many fans concluded that "Lighter" is the worst World Cup song ever, with comments such as: "Do you really think this is a good idea? No passion at all. Worst World Cup song".
According to FIFA, "Lighter" is the opening song for the World Cup 2026 album, designed with a breakthrough orientation, reflecting the most comprehensive and diverse nature of the tournament to date.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino shared: "The World Cup is a rare moment when the whole planet is in sync. The World Cup 2026 album is not only the music that accompanies the tournament, but also a declaration of the direction of global football. The combination of international-level artists helps us create products that reflect the scale, ambition and cultural influence of this historic tournament.
He emphasized: “‘Lighter’ is the starting point for that journey. The song carries a message about endurance, energy and joy, can connect fans around the world, become an indispensable part of the atmosphere of stadiums, festivals and communities throughout the tournament.”
Album World Cup 2026 will gather international stars and emerging talents, carefully selected to recreate the diversity of the tournament with 48 teams, and at the same time become a cultural bridge between football and music.
