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Impersonator Denies Shakira Double Theory at World Cup Opening
๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡จ Ecuador /Sports

Impersonator Denies Shakira Double Theory at World Cup Opening

From El Comercio · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • A viral theory suggested Shakira used a double during the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony, sparking widespread online discussion.
  • The impersonator, Rebeca Maiellano (Shakibecca), denied participating in the event and stated she was a spectator.
  • Shakira herself has not directly addressed the controversy but shared messages about the World Cup's potential to promote peace and unity.

A viral theory claiming Shakira used a body double for her performance at the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony has captured attention online. The speculation gained momentum as videos of the Colombian superstar's performance circulated, with many users commenting on her appearance.

Rebeca Maiellano, a Venezuelan impersonator known as Shakibecca, found herself at the center of the controversy. She publicly denied any involvement in the opening ceremony, explaining via Instagram stories that she was attending the event as a spectator from the St. Regis hotel. Maiellano also shared a video of herself performing a choreography, further distancing herself from the performance.

I was watching Shakira from the St. Regis hotel with several friends.

โ€” Rebeca Maiellano (Shakibecca)The impersonator denied participating in the World Cup opening ceremony.

While the impersonator addressed the rumors, Shakira has remained silent on the specific controversy. However, she has shared posts related to the World Cup, expressing hopes that the tournament will foster peace, unity, and opportunities for children. She also posted photos with fellow performers Burna Boy, J Balvin, and Danny Ocean.

The incident highlights the intense scrutiny celebrities face and how quickly online theories can spread, even involving individuals who bear a striking resemblance to the star.

I hope the tournament promotes peace, unity, and more opportunities for children.

โ€” ShakiraShakira's message related to the World Cup 2026.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by El Comercio in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.