Shakira draws 2mln fans to Copacabana Beach in record-breaking Rio concert

RIO D JANEIRO: Shakira drew an estimated 2 million fans to Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday for a massive free concert, city officials said, marking the biggest performance of her career.

The Colombian pop star delivered a high-energy show on the iconic beachfront, which has increasingly become a venue for large-scale concerts aimed at boosting tourism in the city. The event is part of Rio’s “Todo Mundo no Rio” festival, designed to attract international attention and visitors during May.

The concert opened with a dramatic drone display featuring a wolf symbol associated with Shakira. Performing in Portuguese, she thanked fans, saying it was “magical to see millions of souls together” and celebrating music, unity, and joy.

Shakira performed some of her biggest hits, including “Hips Don’t Lie,” “Antologia,” and the 2010 World Cup anthem “Waka Waka,” while also sharing the stage with Brazilian stars Anitta, Caetano Veloso, Maria Bethania, and Ivete Sangalo.

City officials said the event generated an estimated 800 million reais ($161.45 million) for Rio’s economy, benefiting tourism, hospitality, transport, and retail sectors. The festival is expected to remain part of Rio’s official calendar through at least 2028.