Competition
World Cup
The World Cup now features a recognizable song.
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Sports enthusiasts may have noticed a distinctive addition to the 2026 World Cup.
This summer's tournament is the largest ever, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches to watch, but it's not only the on-field play that has received a significant enhancement.
FIFA had previously tried hosting individual player walk-outs at their expanded Club World Cup last year but decided on a different strategy for the premier competition.
World Cup matches now have an official soundtrack.
All 26 players from each team participating in a game now take the field instead of just the starting 11, accompanied by some highly recognizable entrance music.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino explained the rationale for the new format ahead of the World Cup's commencement, stating it fosters a more inclusive and engaging experience.
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World Cup 2026 will extend the half-time break for a spectacular show, with performers announced.
"Having all players and referees face each other in the center circle during the national anthems will generate a moment of togetherness, pride, and emotion that truly belongs to the teams and to everyone in the stadium," he said.
Participating nations also enter the stadium to the tune of 'Sirius', a 1982 single by The Alan Parsons Project that gained popularity through one of the tournament's co-hosts.
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The two-minute instrumental by the British rock band became well-known in the United States after it served as the Chicago Bulls' signature entrance music starting in 1984.
Longtime Bulls announcer Tommy Edwards selected the song after hearing it at a movie theater and believed it was an ideal choice to introduce the NBA team's players.
Its introduction coincided with the rookie season of a certain Michael Jordan and became his trademark sound as the team began a historic championship run.
Led by three Hall of Famers in Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman, the Bulls created a golden era, winning six NBA championships between 1991 and 1998.
FIFA has not provided an official explanation for using 'Sirius', but there is an obvious connection to the World Cup and its previous hosting in North America during the summer of 1994.
With its atmospheric build-up and nostalgic quality, there are likely few better songs to set the stage for what is undoubtedly one of the greatest sporting events.
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