As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the excitement and hype is intensifying. The World Cup takes place every four years, with this year’s taking place in North America. Top players from across the world compete and represent their country. This tournament unites people, bringing citizens to represent and share their cultures with others.
The World Cup has an ongoing tradition of creating a theme song that incorporates musical and cultural elements of the host country, representing unity, culture and the spirit of the tournament. The most notable songs from the past include “Waka Waka” by Shakira and “Wavin’ Flag” by K’naan, which are praised for their upbeat, passionate lyrics. However, the new 2026 World Cup song ‘‘Lighter” by Jelly Roll and Carin León has recently been under fire for doing the opposite. Across the internet, many say that the song has a generic country-rock sound, not the usual high-energy and celebratory spirit expected from the World Cup; some voiced that the song lacks diversity and representation of the host countries (Mexico, Canada and the United States). The criticism is not only present online but is also reflected among FVHS students, many of whom share similar critiques about the song.
“I don’t like the new World Cup song because it lacks culture, and it doesn’t really fit the tournament,” said freshman Ismael Seghir. “I think it’s more subsided to just one ethnicity instead of bringing everyone together.”
The concern about cultural representation was a common theme among students. Some students compared the song to past World Cup anthems, noting clear differences in energy and style.
“The past songs were more hype and exciting; this one feels like a truck advertisement,” said freshman David Amyradakis.
Others agreed, highlighting that earlier songs better expressed global diversity.
“The best World Cup songs were in the past; they embodied different cultures and had a variety of catchy rhythms. This one just feels generic and boring,” said freshman Shannel Mejia-Velez.
While many students criticized the song, some also suggested how it could have been improved. One student proposed choosing a different artist, like Bad Bunny or Justin Bieber, to better encapsulate the spirit of the FIFA World Cup and represent different cultures.
Overall, many agree that the World Cup songs play an important role in the tournament, helping to create excitement, set the atmosphere and unite fans from all over the world. Although “Lighter” may have gained the attention of the public, many feel it falls short of capturing the energy and cultural elements that define the World Cup, leaving fans across the globe disappointed.
