[2026] FIFA World Cup | Historic Theme Songs That Colored the Tournament
The Soccer World Cup, a festival held once every four years.
On match days, many people find themselves glued to the screen at home or in sports bars, passionately cheering on their teams.
Alongside the thrilling matches, the theme songs also become a major talking point.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of classic tracks that have colored past World Cups.
You might just remember those legendary matches and feel your heart race again!
We’ll also cover songs used in Japanese TV broadcasts and official tournament anthems, so enjoy it all the way to the end!
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[2026] FIFA World Cup | Iconic Theme Songs Through the Years (31–40)
At the End of the Burning BeatB’z
A famous B’z song whose lyrics convey the passion of people who stake their lives on sports.
After being chosen as the theme song for TV Asahi’s broadcasts during the 2002 Japan–South Korea FIFA World Cup, it was selected again nearly 20 years later as the theme song for the WRC World Rally, scheduled to be held in 2021.
Vocalist Inaba, who wrote the lyrics, said about the song: “I wanted to express how not only the athletes and people at the venues, but everyone cheering through newspapers and television, are connected by a shared heartbeat.”
La La La ft. Carlinhos BrownShakira
If you want to feel the World Cup fever through music, Shakira’s track is a must-listen! This song, which lit up the 2014 tournament in Brazil, features a rhythmic, energetic beat.
Influenced by electro house that channels Brazil’s passion, it’s guaranteed to amp up any drive when you play it in the car.
The lyrics celebrate the spirit of soccer and unity, conveying a power that transcends language and cultural barriers.
The visuals that touch on Afro-Brazilian heritage are not to be missed.
The music video, featuring cameo appearances by players, is a wonderful piece that lets you relive the excitement all over again!
Don’t get involved!GAKU-MC / Sakurai Kazutoshi (Mr.Children)
“Te wo Dasu na!” (“Hands Off!”) is a song by rapper GAKU-MC and Mr.Children’s Kazutoshi Sakurai, released in 2006, which reached No.
2 on the Oricon singles chart.
GAKU-MC and Sakurai met through soccer and later formed the duo Ukasaka-G.
In addition to being selected as a support song for the 2006 World Cup, “Te wo Dasu na!” was also used as the theme song for Soccer Earth, a Nippon TV soccer program featuring GAKU-MC.
reboot ~A Poem That Doesn’t Give Up~flumpool
The theme song used for Nippon TV’s soccer broadcasts at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa was flumpool’s fourth single, “reboot ~Akiramenai Uta~.” It reached No.
2 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
Created with the concept of “a song with a grand intro,” it features a cool, fast-paced chorus.
The lyrics about miracles are a perfect fit for players aiming for the championship, so be sure to give it a listen!
GlorylandDaryl Hall＆Sound Of Blackness
Music is a mysterious thing—hearing a certain song brings back memories of “that moment.” I’m sure many people hear this track and remember the 1994 World Cup final, Brazil vs.
Italy.
After a 0–0 draw, it went to penalties, and Italy’s treasure, Roberto Baggio, missed his kick in that legendary match.
The title “Gloryland” probably stands for something like “championship,” doesn’t it? Lyrics like “believe in yourself and head for the land of glory” evoke the World Cup itself.
The layered chorus resonates like gospel, making the song all the more moving.
[2026] FIFA World Cup | Theme Songs That Colored the Tournament (41–50)
AwakeningEXILE
“Awakening” is a digital-only single by EXILE released in 2018, and it was selected as the theme song for TBS’s soccer broadcasts that year.
The lyrics were written by member ATSUSHI, who drew on memories of devoting himself to soccer in his childhood when writing them.
“Awakening” is a grand ballad with a powerful sound that stirs the fighting spirit.
ATSUSHI also produced the lyric video, so be sure to check it out!
Wavin’ FlagK’NAAN
Infused with a message of hope and unity, this song is included on the 2009 album Troubadour.
Born from K’naan’s personal experiences, the lyrics powerfully sing of the strength to face adversity and dreams for the future.
Chosen as Coca-Cola’s promotional anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, it became a global hit, reaching the top 10 in more than 20 countries and capturing the hearts of soccer fans.
This track not only brightened the world’s greatest sporting event, but also offers encouragement in everyday life.
It’s perfect for gatherings with friends or boosting motivation before a workout.