FIFA has officially revealed the first song of the 2026 World Cup, “Lighterâ€, a cross-genre collaboration between American artist Jelly Roll and Mexican singer CarÃn León. The track, blending rock, country, and regional Mexican sounds, will be released on March 20 across all major digital platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music.
Presented by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, “Lighter†is positioned as the anthem that sets the tone for the tournament across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Production was handled by Grammy-winning producer Cirkut, recognized as 2026 Producer of the Year, giving the project a high-profile musical pedigree.
FIFA selected the artists to bridge the cultures of the three host nations. Jelly Roll represents American rock and country traditions, while CarÃn León, the first Latin artist to perform at The Sphere in Las Vegas, brings contemporary Mexican flair. The song emphasizes themes of freedom and lightness, and it is expected that CarÃn León may record versions in both Spanish and English, reminiscent of Shakira’s “Waka Waka†for the 2010 World Cup.
CarÃn León will also contribute to other tracks on the official album alongside Santa Fe Klan and Los Ãngeles Azules, reinforcing the presence of Mexican music in the World Cup soundtrack. Infantino noted that the full album will feature both established global artists and emerging voices from around the world, reflecting the tournament’s diversity and international reach.
The 2026 World Cup will run from June 11 to July 19, featuring 48 national teams and culminating in the final at the New York/New Jersey Stadium. With “Lighter,†FIFA’s music strategy is already building anticipation for what promises to be the most diverse and global tournament in history.