Latin pop star Shakira launched her free mega-concert on Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach on Saturday night, drawing an estimated two million fans in what is expected to be one of the largest performances of her career.
The Colombian singer took to the stage under a full moon, with drones forming the image of a she-wolf—her widely recognised symbol—overhead, despite starting the show over an hour behind schedule.
The concert, held on a massive stage near the iconic Copacabana Palace Hotel, adds to a growing list of record-breaking performances at the venue, which has hosted global stars including Madonna and Lady Gaga in recent years.
Fans from across Brazil and beyond gathered for the event, with many arriving early or travelling long distances to attend. Some camped overnight on the beach, while others lined up outside the singer’s hotel in hopes of catching a glimpse of the star.
The performance marks the opening of Shakira’s 2025 world tour, which has already set a Guinness World Record as the highest-grossing tour by a Latin artist.
Ahead of the concert, the singer engaged fans through social media, sharing moments from her arrival in Rio, including views of Sugarloaf Mountain.
The city witnessed heightened activity in the lead-up to the show, with vendors selling merchandise and refreshments, and authorities deploying nearly 8,000 security personnel, supported by drones and surveillance systems, to manage the large crowd.
Local officials estimate the concert will generate over $160 million for the city’s economy, with tourism figures showing a significant rise in travel bookings compared to the previous year.
The event is widely expected to become the largest live performance of Shakira’s career, further cementing her global influence and enduring popularity.
