Marcelo Benedetto Seeks Photo with Shakira at 2026 World Cup Opening Match

Marcelo Benedetto, a journalist for DSport, captured attention after approaching Colombian singer Shakira at the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony in Mexico City, according to multiple reports. The incident occurred ahead of the match between Mexico and Canada, which marked the tournament’s start on June 12, 2026, as confirmed by FIFA.

What Happened During the 2026 World Cup Opening Ceremony?

Benedetto, an Argentine-born sports journalist known for his high-profile interactions with celebrities, reportedly spotted Shakira at the Azteca Stadium during the pre-game festivities. Witnesses described him crossing the field to greet the singer, who agreed to a photo. A video of the encounter, shared on social media, shows Benedetto smiling as he poses with Shakira before returning to his broadcasting position.

“She arrived, I’m going to approach her!” Benedetto said in a live commentary, as captured by streaming platforms. The moment was broadcast to an estimated 15 million viewers globally, according to Nielsen ratings.

How Has the Public Reacted to Benedetto’s Actions?

The incident sparked mixed reactions online. While some praised Benedetto’s boldness, others criticized his on-air behavior as unprofessional. A poll conducted by El Universal found 58% of respondents viewed his actions as “audacious but harmless,” while 32% called it “disruptive to the event’s atmosphere.”

Shakira’s team did not immediately comment on the encounter, but her presence at the event was confirmed by the Colombian government, which highlighted her role as a cultural ambassador for the tournament.

What Is Marcelo Benedetto’s Background?

Benedetto, 45, has covered five FIFA World Cups since 2006, according to his LinkedIn profile. He previously worked for ESPN and FOX Sports, where he gained fame for his energetic on-air style. His history of engaging with celebrities includes a 2014 incident where he interviewed Cristiano Ronaldo during a Champions League match, as reported by Sporting News.

Why Does This Incident Matter in the Context of the 2026 World Cup?

The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, aims to blend sports and pop culture, with artists like Shakira and Bad Bunny performing at key events. Benedetto’s interaction underscores the growing intersection of sports journalism and entertainment, a trend noted by The New York Times in a 2023 analysis of media coverage at major sporting events.

What Are the Next Steps for Benedetto and DSport?

DSport, a digital platform focused on sports and entertainment, has not issued a formal statement on the incident. However, Benedetto’s social media accounts show he continues to cover the tournament, with recent posts highlighting match highlights and fan interactions.