The 2026 FIFA World Cup final at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium between Spain and Argentina not only delivered a thrilling match but also sparked much chatter off the field. Gerard Piqué was spotted in the stands with his sons, Milan and Sasha, as his former partner, Shakira, took center stage for the World Cup halftime show.
This marked the first public event since their high-profile split in 2022 where both Piqué and Shakira were present, though they did not interact or appear together at any point.
A Viral Sensation: Sasha Steals the Show
Social media quickly lit up when a video captured Sasha, the younger son of the former couple, passionately singing along to "Dai Dai," the tournament's official anthem, during Shakira's performance. Sitting next to his father and brother, Milan, Sasha's enthusiasm starkly contrasted with Piqué's stoic demeanor, as he showed no visible reaction to the performance, the song, or his sons' excitement.
According to HuffPost Spain, the former soccer star appeared to keep a low profile throughout the show, trying to remain unnoticed in his seat. Yet, the video rapidly became a global trend.
Sasha and Milan's Interaction with Their Father
Another much-discussed moment was the apparent distance between Piqué and his sons as they lined up to enter the stadium. Despite Piqué's attempts to engage with them affectionately and warmly, the boys seemed serious and somewhat detached, an observation shared by other spectators nearby.
Spotlight on Piqué Without Clara Chía
Noticeably absent from the event was Clara Chía, Piqué's current partner. Rumors had circulated suggesting she might accompany him, fueled by recent photos of the couple in Los Angeles. However, she did not attend, leaving Piqué alone with his sons, which intensified the media spotlight on his presence during Shakira's performance for millions of viewers.
TVNotas summarized the situation on X: "Piqué caught in Shakira's success. His son cheered beside him. Awkward? Gerard Piqué witnessed live his ex's resounding triumph at the World Cup final. And rumor has it he endured a sweet reminder, as his own son was excitedly supporting his mom."
Shakira's Triumph: A Historic Halftime Show
While the drama unfolded in the stands, Shakira experienced a career milestone. The Colombian singer performed "Dai Dai" alongside Burna Boy and Uganda's Ghetto Kids during the first-ever World Cup halftime show, sharing the stage with stars like Madonna, BTS, Justin Bieber, and Coldplay.
Before the final, Shakira expressed her loyalties in an interview with Juan Carlos Rivero on RTVE, saying, "I have two Spanish sons, and obviously, I'm with Spain." Spain clinched the title 1-0 in overtime thanks to Ferran Torres's goal, and Shakira celebrated by posting a photo with Torres on Instagram, congratulating "her people of Spain."
A Full Circle Moment 16 Years Later
This World Cup hosted a symbolic moment not lost on observers. It was back in the 2010 South Africa World Cup when Shakira's "Waka Waka" was the official anthem that the couple first met. Piqué, then a player for the victorious Spanish team, promised Shakira they would meet at the final. Sixteen years later, at another World Cup final, their sons sang Shakira's new anthem next to him as he stared into the distance.
As noted by HuffPost Spain, "For both Piqué and Shakira, this World Cup must have brought back many memories. It's important to remember it all began for them there."
Key Moments from the World Cup Final and Piqué's Experience
What was the reaction of Piqué during Shakira's performance?
Gerard Piqué remained stoic and showed no visible reaction during Shakira's halftime performance, contrasting with his son Sasha's enthusiastic singing.
Was Clara Chía present at the World Cup final with Piqué?
No, Clara Chía was not present at the World Cup final. Piqué attended the event with his sons, Milan and Sasha, without his current partner.