Colombian singer Shakira, one of the most influential artists on the planet, has been at the center of a story that has shaken the football world and the public sphere in recent hours. According to sources close to FC Barcelona, ​​the performer of global hits such as “Hips Don’t Lie” and “Waka Waka” has proposed a high-impact collaboration to the Catalan club: exclusively performing the Barça anthem — “Cant del Barça” — at a special ceremony in the renovated Camp Nou, combined with a multi-million dollar sponsorship agreement for the entire season.

The offer, reportedly discussed in a closed-door meeting at the club’s facilities, included not only a headline performance by Shakira, but also a joint advertising campaign, appearances at team events, and a significant donation through her Pies Descalzos Foundation, which aligns with Barça’s social values.

However, the proposal came with a condition that has sparked intense debate: FC Barcelona would have to publicly commit to long-term and explicit support for the LGBT community, including visible actions such as ongoing campaigns, inclusion in expanded statutes, and consistent visibility in the stadium and on official social media.

Barça has already demonstrated its commitment to sexual and gender diversity on numerous occasions. For years, the club has raised the rainbow flag at Camp Nou and the Johan Cruyff Stadium to mark International LGBTQ+ Pride Day, rejects all forms of LGBTQ+phobia in sport, and has received recognition for its inclusive stance. In February 2025, for example, it reiterated its absolute rejection of discrimination in an official statement on the occasion of the International Day Against LGBTQ+phobia in Sport.

Shakira’s sexual orientation, therefore, would not directly clash with the club’s philosophy, but her demand for a “permanent and public” institutional commitment has been interpreted by some as a further step, almost as a binding political declaration.

The meeting, which reportedly took place at the club’s offices in recent weeks, was attended by high-level executives, Shakira’s representatives, and, surprisingly, some first-team players as privileged witnesses. It was in this context that the young defender Pau Cubarsí, one of La Masia’s most promising talents and already an undisputed starter at just 19 years old, stunned everyone present—and subsequently the entire world—with a moving and profound speech that transcended the realm of sports.

According to accounts from those present, Cubarsí took the floor unexpectedly and delivered words that have been described as “powerful and moving.” The center-back, known for his maturity despite his youth, reportedly said something along the lines of: “Football unites us, but what makes us human is respecting everyone for who they are. I grew up at a club that has always championed diversity, from Cruyff to today.

If this proposal helps ensure that no one feels excluded because of their orientation, their identity, or who they are, then there’s no point in debating it. I support this not because it’s trendy, but because it’s the right thing to do. Camp Nou should be a place where everyone feels at home, without fear or prejudice. And if Shakira wants to help make that more visible, then welcome.”

Cubarsí’s statement was not only surprising for its eloquence and courage—speaking at a meeting of that magnitude as one of the youngest present—but also because it went far beyond football. The player, who has been an indirect victim of media pressure and represents the new generation of Barça fans, emphasized the importance of human values ​​above any economic or sporting interests. Her words were quickly leaked through attendees, and although there is no official recording, they have circulated on social media and in the press as a testament to her maturity and social commitment.

Shakira’s proposal has not yet been officially accepted or rejected by FC Barcelona. Club sources indicate that it is being carefully evaluated, considering legal, economic, and image-related aspects. The sponsorship could represent a key financial boost at a time when the club is seeking to stabilize its finances after years of restructuring, while Shakira’s performance at Camp Nou—possibly at the stadium’s full reopening or during a Clásico—would generate an unprecedented global media impact.

For her part, Shakira, who maintains a long-standing relationship with Barça through her ex-partner Gerard Piqué—who was a player and director for the club—has not publicly commented on the news. However, her career demonstrates a consistent commitment to social causes: from her educational foundation in Colombia to her inclusive stances at concerts, where she has waved rainbow flags and dedicated messages to diversity. Her offer could be interpreted as a natural extension of those values, leveraging her global influence to drive change.

The controversy has divided opinions within the Barça community and Spanish football. Some applaud the initiative as a courageous step towards greater inclusion, recalling that Barça defines itself as “more than a club” precisely because of its defense of human rights. Others question whether a sports club should make such explicit political commitments, fearing unnecessary polarization. What is undeniable is that Pau Cubarsí’s intervention has elevated the debate to another level, transforming it into a reflection on identity, values, and the role of athletes in society.

While the club considers the proposal, the football world watches closely. Will Barça accept Shakira’s offer and reinforce its image as a progressive institution? Or will it prioritize neutrality on controversial issues? One thing is clear: thanks to an iconic singer and a young defender with a distinctive voice, Camp Nou could become a stage not only for goals, but also for messages that transcend the pitch.

Football, once again, proves that it is much more than a game. And in this case, Cubarsí’s statement has reminded everyone that true champions are also measured by their humanity.