The 2026 FIFA World Cup wasn't just a showcase for the world's best football—it was a financial bonanza for some of the biggest names in entertainment. Among the top earners were two icons with deep ties to Latin America: Shakira, the Colombian superstar, and David Beckham, the English football legend with a strong presence in Miami and Latin markets.
According to a report from British outlet GiveMeSport, citing research by The Sun, Beckham topped the celebrity earnings list with an estimated $25 million USD. The former England captain and co-owner of Inter Miami FC fronted campaigns for at least a dozen major brands, including Adidas, Lay's, McDonald's, Pepsi, and Stella Artois. His constant presence across global broadcasts during the tournament's 30-day run helped push the combined net worth of Beckham and his wife, Victoria Beckham, to an estimated $1.5 billion USD.
Shakira, meanwhile, reinforced her status as the unofficial queen of World Cup music. The Barranquilla-born artist headlined both the opening and closing ceremonies, performing her hit single "Dai Dai" alongside Burna Boy. The appearances earned her $19.5 million USD, according to the report, and sparked a surge in streaming of her catalog. This marked her fourth World Cup performance, a legacy that began with the 2010 anthem "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)."
The tournament's commercial reach extended far beyond football. Pop star Justin Bieber and actor Timothée Chalamet each earned an estimated $15.5 million from promotional deals. Blackpink member Lisa generated roughly $11.7 million, while media mogul Kim Kardashian took home $10.4 million. Even Madonna and Susan Boyle got in on the action, earning $5.2 million and $650,000, respectively.
For Latino audiences, Shakira's payday is particularly resonant. She has long been a bridge between Latin America and global pop culture, and her ability to command such fees underscores the growing economic power of Latin artists. As we explored in our piece on how Shakira and other Latin stars built business empires, her savvy extends well beyond music.
Beckham's earnings also reflect a deep connection to Latin America. As co-owner of Inter Miami, he has become a fixture in the region's football culture, and his brand deals often target Spanish-speaking markets. The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, amplified that reach. For a deeper look at the tournament's cultural impact, check out our coverage of the historic halftime show featuring Shakira, Madonna, and Justin Bieber.
The financial windfall for celebrities during the World Cup is a testament to the event's unparalleled global audience. But for Shakira and Beckham, it's also a reflection of their enduring appeal across cultures. Shakira's ability to command $19.5 million for two performances—while also boosting her music streams—shows how Latin artists can leverage major events to build lasting wealth. Beckham's $25 million haul, meanwhile, highlights the power of strategic brand partnerships in a tournament that spans continents.
As the dust settles on the 2026 World Cup, one thing is clear: the intersection of sports, music, and celebrity culture is more lucrative than ever, and Latino stars are leading the charge.
