The global intersection of sports and music has just reached a new milestone with the release of the highly anticipated music video for “Follow Me,” the official anthem of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In a move that further solidifies K-Pop’s expanding influence on the world stage, TWICE’s leader and main vocalist, Jihyo, joins an international powerhouse lineup for this monumental track. Released on June 12 via 2101 Records/Vydia, with its visual accompaniment dropping on June 22, the song is a testament to the unifying power of music across borders.
The collaboration brings together an eclectic mix of artists from around the globe. Alongside Jihyo’s powerful vocals, the track features Moroccan-American rapper French Montana, Brazilian singer-songwriter Ludmilla, and emerging pop artist Adriana C. This diverse assembly of talent was masterminded by the Grammy-winning producer RedOne, who is renowned for his work with global superstars such as Lady Gaga, Enrique Iglesias, and One Direction. RedOne’s signature ability to craft massive, stadium-ready anthems is on full display here, creating a soundscape that is both culturally rich and universally appealing.
A Visual Celebration of Global Unity
The music video for “Follow Me” is a vibrant celebration that seamlessly blends the worlds of entertainment and professional football. It serves as a visual representation of the song’s core message: bringing people together through shared passions. The video features appearances from several legendary and current football figures, elevating its status as a true World Cup anthem. Viewers can spot Brazilian football icon Ronaldo, Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Díaz, Federico Valverde, and Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries making cameo appearances throughout the energetic visual.
According to a statement from JYP Entertainment, the agency representing TWICE, the song was deliberately crafted with a specific vision in mind. They noted that the project was created with the goal of connecting music fans across cultures through a message of unity, energy, and celebration. This sentiment is deeply embedded in both the lyrical content and the upbeat, rhythmic production of the track. By incorporating multiple languages and diverse musical influences, “Follow Me” reflects the truly international nature of the FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada in 2026.
Producer RedOne echoed these thoughts in a recent interview with Billboard. He highlighted the unique relationship between music and sports, describing them as two universal languages capable of creating powerful shared experiences across borders and cultures. His vision for the track was to capture the sheer adrenaline and emotional highs that accompany the world’s most-watched sporting event, and the inclusion of artists like Jihyo was crucial in achieving that global resonance.
Jihyo’s Expanding International Footprint
For Jihyo, participating in “Follow Me” marks a significant milestone in her already illustrious career. As the leader of TWICE, one of the most successful girl groups in K-Pop history, she has spent years cultivating a massive international fanbase. However, stepping onto the FIFA World Cup stage represents a different level of global exposure. Industry insiders have noted that the collaboration represents another milestone in her growing international presence, showcasing her versatility and appeal beyond the traditional K-Pop market.
Jihyo’s involvement in the anthem is not just a personal triumph but also a strategic move that highlights the increasing demand for K-Pop artists in mainstream global projects. Her distinct vocal tone adds a unique flavor to the track, complementing the styles of French Montana and Ludmilla perfectly. Fans of TWICE, affectionately known as ONCE, have taken to social media in droves to express their pride and excitement, trending hashtags related to the release and praising Jihyo’s performance in the music video.
The success of her solo debut album “ZONE” in 2023 already proved her capability to command the stage as an individual artist. Now, by anchoring a track designed to be heard by billions of football fans worldwide, Jihyo is cementing her status as a global pop icon. Her seamless integration into a song featuring such diverse international artists speaks volumes about her adaptability and the universal appeal of her talent.
K-Pop’s Growing Legacy at the FIFA World Cup
Jihyo’s participation in “Follow Me” is the latest chapter in K-Pop’s evolving relationship with the FIFA World Cup. What was once a localized phenomenon has now become an integral part of the tournament’s cultural fabric. The connection traces back to 2002, when South Korea and Japan co-hosted the event. During that tournament, Korean artists Lena Park and Brown Eyes collaborated with Japanese acts to release “Let’s Get Together Now,” setting a precedent for cross-cultural musical partnerships in sports.
Fast forward to 2022, and the relationship reached new heights when BTS member Jungkook became the first solo K-Pop artist to headline a FIFA World Cup opening ceremony. His performance of “Dreamers” in Qatar was a watershed moment, proving that K-Pop artists could carry the weight of such a massive global stage. The track dominated international charts and introduced K-Pop to demographics that might not have previously engaged with the genre.
The 2026 World Cup has seen an unprecedented level of involvement from Korean artists. Just days before the release of the “Follow Me” music video, BLACKPINK’s Lisa made history by performing her collaboration track “Goals” alongside Anitta and Rema at the tournament’s second opening ceremony. Furthermore, rumors are swirling that BTS is set to headline the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show at MetLife Stadium in July, an event that would mark the first officially organized halftime show for a World Cup final.
The Strategic Intersection of Music and Sports
The increasing presence of K-Pop artists in events like the FIFA World Cup highlights a broader strategic shift in the entertainment industry. Record labels and sports organizations are recognizing the immense mutual benefits of these collaborations. For FIFA, partnering with artists like Jihyo brings in a dedicated, highly engaged fanbase that might not typically follow football. K-Pop fans are known for their unparalleled ability to drive social media engagement, stream content continuously, and generate global buzz.
Conversely, for the artists and their agencies, the World Cup offers unparalleled exposure. The tournament is the most widely viewed sporting event on the planet, offering a platform to reach billions of casual listeners. By participating in the official soundtrack, Jihyo and TWICE are expanding their reach into new markets, particularly in Latin America and Europe, where football is deeply ingrained in the culture and where artists like Ludmilla and French Montana hold significant sway.
As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, “Follow Me” stands as an early highlight of the tournament’s cultural offerings. With its infectious beat, star-studded lineup, and the undeniable star power of TWICE’s Jihyo, the track is poised to become a staple on playlists worldwide. It is more than just a song; it is a celebration of global unity, a testament to the power of collaboration, and a clear indicator that K-Pop’s influence on the world stage is only continuing to grow.
