Fans use AI to create viral World Cup anthems, outshining FIFA's official tracks

Ahead of the upcoming World Cup, fans have turned to artificial intelligence to create and mass-produce viral songs supporting their teams. The trend, reportedly starting with a French team song in February 2026, has exploded across social media platforms — YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram — racking up millions of plays by May 22. These AI-generated anthems often mimic popular music styles and feature team chants, quickly capturing the enthusiasm of global audiences. Many users now favor them over official FIFA tracks, citing catchier melodies and more authentic fan sentiment.

This surge raises pressing questions for the music industry: Who owns these AI-generated songs? How should artists be compensated when AI replicates their style? And what becomes of human creativity in a world where anyone can produce a stadium-ready hit in minutes? While the trend showcases AI's power to democratize music creation, it also threatens traditional revenue streams and intellectual property norms. For now, the viral success of these anthems signals a shift in how fans engage with major sporting events — and a growing tension between technological accessibility and artistic value.