Palestinian-Chilean star Elyanna brings Middle Eastern soul to FIFA World Cup 2026 soundtrack
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- Palestinian-Chilean singer Elyanna makes history as the first Palestinian artist on a FIFA World Cup soundtrack with the 2026 anthem "Illuminate."
In a landmark moment for Palestinian representation on the global stage, singer-songwriter Elyanna has been officially announced as a featured artist on the FIFA World Cup 2026 soundtrack.
Her new single, "Illuminate," a collaboration with Colombian-Canadian artist Jessie Reyez, was released this week as a cornerstone of the tournament's official musical lineup.
The track, produced by the Grammy-winning producer Cirkut, is the first and currently the only song on the 2026 album to feature a Middle Eastern artist.
A Palestinian voice on the world stage
Born in Nazareth, Elyanna has become a definitive voice for the Palestinian diaspora. Her inclusion in the World Cup soundtrack, the most-watched sporting event globally, is seen by fans and critics as a significant cultural victory.
"Illuminate" intentionally fuses Elyanna’s Arabic vocal trills and traditional influences with Reyez’s contemporary R&B style. The collaboration serves as a sonic bridge between the Middle East and the host nations of Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
"Elyanna represents a new generation of artists who refuse to leave their heritage at the door," said one music industry analyst. "Bringing the Arabic language and Palestinian identity to a World Cup hosted in North America is a powerful statement of visibility."
Breaking barriers
Elyanna’s participation in the 2026 soundtrack adds to an impressive list of recent "firsts" for the artist:
- Coachella History: She was the first artist to perform an entire set in Arabic at the festival in 2023.
- Late Night Debut: She recently became the first artist to sing in Arabic on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
- Global Collaborations: Her work with Coldplay on the track "We Pray" recently brought Palestinian-inspired vocals to the top of international charts.
Performance and impact
FIFA has confirmed that the duo will perform "Illuminate" live at the opening ceremony in Toronto this June. While Jessie Reyez has announced she will donate her artist fee to charity, Elyanna has also committed to supporting humanitarian initiatives through the project, further emphasizing the track's theme of global solidarity.
As the tournament prepares to host 48 teams from across the globe, "Illuminate" stands as a reminder of the diverse identities, particularly the Palestinian and broader Arab communities, that contribute to the world's cultural fabric.
