Venezuelan digital creator Rebeca Maiellano, who performs as ShakiBecca and has built a following of over 500,000 fans by channeling Shakira's every move, is now under internal review by FIFA. The governing body is investigating whether Maiellano unlawfully incorporated protected 2026 World Cup logos and visual symbols into her live shows and promotional content.
Maiellano, who hails from Venezuela and has gained international attention for her precise choreography and vocal mimicry, has always maintained that her work is a fan tribute with no official ties to Shakira's management. But FIFA's legal teams are taking a closer look, especially as the tournament's official anthem—Dai Dai, performed by Shakira alongside Burna Boy—generates massive global visibility.
What FIFA Is Investigating
According to reports from celebrity outlet Hola!, FIFA's internal legal teams are auditing ShakiBecca's recent performances and digital assets. The focus is on whether she used proprietary trademarks, tournament graphics, or official World Cup visual systems for commercial gain. While no lawsuit has been filed, marketing analysts note that FIFA has a strict zero-tolerance policy for unauthorized brand exploitation, which could lead to swift enforcement actions if profit-driven infringement is confirmed.
This isn't just about a tribute artist—it's about the high-stakes world of World Cup branding. The 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and México, represents billions in sponsorship deals. FIFA's legal teams are tasked with protecting that ecosystem from any dilution, even from well-meaning fan tributes.
Shakira's Deep Ties to the World Cup
The controversy is amplified by Shakira's long-standing role in the tournament's identity. The Colombian icon first made history with Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) in 2010, one of the best-selling sports anthems ever. She followed up with La La La for the 2014 Brazil World Cup. Now, with Dai Dai, she returns after more than a decade, performing the anthem live at the opening ceremony alongside Burna Boy.
The official music video for Dai Dai features cameos from football legends like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Vinícius Jr., reinforcing the tournament's multi-million-dollar sponsorship web. This extensive integration of elite athletes and corporate partners explains why FIFA must strictly protect its intellectual property—any unauthorized use could dilute brand equity.
For a deeper look at Shakira's intellectual journey and how she built her empire, check out our piece on Shakira's Intellectual Edge.
What This Means for ShakiBecca
Maiellano has not publicly commented on the review, but her social media remains active, showcasing her tribute performances. The Venezuelan artist has built a career on her resemblance to Shakira, performing at events across the Americas. However, the line between tribute and infringement can be thin, especially when official logos are involved.
This case also highlights the challenges faced by digital creators in an era of strict brand protection. For many Latino artists and influencers, tribute work is a legitimate path to visibility—but it can also attract legal scrutiny. As FIFA's review continues, the outcome could set a precedent for how fan tributes interact with major sporting events.
For more on Shakira's recent appearances, including her concert with Sofía Vergara, read Sofía Vergara Joins Shakira at L.A. Concert.
