How Ed Sheeran helped me handle World Cup final pressure — Burna Boy

In the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, Nigerian Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy has disclosed the pivotal role British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran played in helping him manage the immense pressure of performing on such a grand stage. According to an interview shared by punchng.com, Burna Boy described Sheeran as an insightful and considerate collaborator who not only reached out to invite him onto the official World Cup anthem but also guided him through the mental challenges associated with the event.

The collaboration in question is "Dai Dai," the tournament's official song, which features Burna Boy alongside Colombian superstar Shakira. Ed Sheeran, who co-wrote the track with producer Alexander Castillo, was instrumental in bringing the artists together. Burna Boy noted that Sheeran was the first to contact him about the project, encouraging the partnership with Shakira and setting the foundation for the song's global release.

Burna Boy recounted that Sheeran anticipated how daunting it might be for him to perform in front of a vast international audience. Recognizing Burna Boy’s sensitivity to performance pressure, Sheeran proactively warned him about the stress and demands inherent to the World Cup final, aiming to prepare him emotionally and mentally.

Their relationship, as described by Burna Boy, extends beyond professional ties; he highlighted Sheeran's intelligence, professionalism, and genuine personality, emphasizing the trust and camaraderie they developed over time. This rapport arguably bolstered Burna Boy’s confidence as he approached one of the most high-profile moments in his career.

Shakira's involvement in the song also carries significant weight. The Colombian artist explained in a separate interview that she sought a strong male voice to complement the Afrobeat-inspired rhythm of "Dai Dai," viewing Burna Boy as the ideal collaborator to embody the masculine energy she envisioned. Her admiration for Burna Boy's distinctive vocal style led her to patiently await his contribution, which ultimately became a defining element of the anthem.

The song debuted at the tournament's opening ceremony at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11, 2026, marking a culturally significant moment that fused Afrobeat with global pop influences. This collaboration was further showcased during the World Cup final halftime show on July 19, 2026, held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where Burna Boy and Shakira were joined by Uganda’s Ghetto Kids dance troupe, adding dynamic visual energy to the performance.

This partnership underscores the increasing prominence and international appeal of Afrobeats in major global events, with Burna Boy’s participation signaling the genre’s rising influence. Meanwhile, Shakira’s continued presence in World Cup anthems reflects her enduring impact on the intersection of music and sports, following her previous success with "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" in 2010.

While details about Burna Boy’s personal coping strategies remain limited, his acknowledgment of Sheeran’s mentorship sheds light on the often-unseen pressures artists face during high-stakes performances. It also highlights the importance of peer support within the music industry, particularly when navigating unprecedented global stages.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to capture worldwide attention, the synergy between these artists exemplifies how music can bridge diverse cultures and experiences. Burna Boy’s candid reflections offer a rare glimpse into the preparatory dynamics behind such monumental performances, enriching the narrative surrounding one of the world’s most watched sporting events.