FIFA and Sony Music Entertainment today announced that Waka Waka (This Time For Africa), written and co-produced by global superstar Shakira, has been chosen as the Official Song of the upcoming 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. The song will be performed by Shakira together with South African artist Freshlyground at the Closing Ceremony before the FIFA World Cup Final on July 11 in Johannesburg Soccer City Stadium. All proceeds from the song will benefit FIFA's Official Campaign of the 2010 FIFA World Cup "20 Centers for 2010."

The song combines Afro-Colombian instrumentation and rhythms with a rousing Soca beat and Southern African guitar. The chorus borrows from a favorite Cameroonian marching chant made popular by the group Golden Voices.

"The Official Song is as much awaited by the fans as the Mascot or the Logo. It is part of the identity of the world's most exciting sport's event. This song is the personification of the African rhythm and identity and sets the pace for this unique event. I am looking forward to hearing the song throughout the tournament and watch it performed by Shakira and Freshlyground at the Final", said Joseph S. Blatter, FIFA President.

"I am honoured that Waka Waka (This Time For Africa) was chosen to be part of the excitement and the legacy of the 2010 FIFA World Cup," said Shakira. "The FIFA World Cup is a miracle of global excitement, connecting every country, race, religion and condition around a single passion. It represents an event that has the power to unite and integrate, and that's what this song is about."

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