sports
May 2, 2026
Shakira's megashow in Copacabana: Rio in Shakira mode before the Colombian's concert
The effervescence grows with every hour this Saturday in Copacabana, as a human tide begins to arrive at the iconic beach of Rio de Janeiro to see the free megaconcert of Latin pop star Shakira. AFP Two million people are expected to fill the famous beach, where a monumental 1,345 square meter stage has been erected in front of the mythical Copacabana Palace hotel, which has hosted the 49-year-old artist since her arrival on Wednesday.
TL;DR
- An estimated two million people are expected to attend Shakira's free concert on Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro.
- A 1,345 square meter stage has been erected in front of the Copacabana Palace hotel.
- The concert is expected to inject over 800 million reais (approximately $160 million) into the local economy.
- Air travel bookings for the week have increased by over 80% compared to the previous year.
- Approximately 8,000 agents, drones, facial recognition cameras, and 18 security checkpoints with metal detectors have been deployed.
- Shakira has a long history with Brazil, having performed there numerous times since 1996.
- Fans have traveled from afar and expressed deep admiration for the artist's passion and connection to Latin culture.
- The city has been transformed with Shakira-themed decorations and merchandise, with Copacabana even being nicknamed 'Lobacabana'.