FIFA World Cup 2022: BTS member Jungkook saves the inauguration ceremony; here's why Shakira, Dua Lipa and others backed out of performing in Qatar

FIFA World Cup 2022: BTS member Jungkook become sole star attraction of opening ceremony; here is a look at why big names like Shakira, Rod Stewart and Dua Lipa reportedly decided to skip the event

By: Urmimala Banerjee | Published: November 21 2022, 11:32 AM IST

bollywoodlife.com photo — FIFA World Cup 2022: BTS member Jeon Jungkook stole the show

BTS vocalist Jeon Jungkook stole the show at the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. The song Dreamers is a vibe. He performed with Qatari singer Fahad Al Kubaisi. Top pop stars like Shakira, Dua Lipa and Rod Stewart dropped out as they felt conflicted performing in Qatar. The Arab nation has faced flak after reports came that more than 6,000 workers lost their lives in building those stadiums. They were working in the ruthless heat and could not handle it. Also, Qatar has curbs on same-sex relations. People holding up Pride flags will be arrested. This gave Jeon Jungkook a solo stage. He has done very well, and will soon return home to Korea.

bollywoodlife.com photo — FIFA World Cup 2022: Shakira backed out of the opening ceremony due to undisclosed reasons

Fans were upset knowing that Shakira won't be performing. She has given football World Cup the iconic song Waka Waka. Shakira quietly backed out from a performance at the inauguration. It seems it is because of her ugly divorce with Gerard Pique. They are having a huge custody battle.

bollywoodlife.com photo — FIFA World Cup 2022: Dua Lipa shut down rumours

British pop star Dua Lipa, who is of Czech origin said that she is not performing, nor did she ever negotiate with the organizers. Dua Lipa said she will cheer England from a distance. She said she will visit when Qatar fulfills all the human rights pledges it made. As we know, same-sex relations are taboo in the nation.

bollywoodlife.com photo — FIFA World Cup 2022: Rod Stewart said No

Music legend Rod Stewart also said that he turned down an offer of Rs one million to perform at FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He said it did not feel right.

bollywoodlife.com photo — David Beckham

The football star is one of the ambassadors of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He has been called out for ignoring the issue of rights of migrant workers, and the nation's curbs on LGBTQ fans. He is one of the members of the football community who has always stood by those with alternate sexuality and gender identity.

bollywoodlife.com photo — BTS Jungkook performed with Fahad Al Kubaisi

BTS Jungkook was joined on stage by Qatari singer Fahad Al Kubaisi. He was a part of the Dreamers song. Fahad Al Kubaisi praised Jungkook on social media.

bollywoodlife.com photo — FIFA World Cup 2022: Jungkook's Dreamers gets thumbs up

BTS member Jungkook gave a solo performance. The song Dreamers is getting good reviews. Hyundai is one of the main sponsors of the FIFA World Cup 2022. ARMY and even general fans liked the song Dreamers.

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