Global pop icon Ricky Martin and Brazilian producer Pedro Sampaio headlined the halftime show at the NFL Rio Game, delivering a high-energy performance at Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Maracanã Stadium during the matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the Baltimore Ravens. The event served as the backdrop for the world premiere of their new collaborative single, “pikito, pikito.”
A High-Energy Halftime Show
The halftime set opened with Pedro Sampaio performing key tracks from his catalog of Brazilian funk hits, setting the stage for Ricky Martin, who energized the stadium audience and global television broadcast viewers with his signature hit, “Livin’ la Vida Loca.”
The climax of the showcase came as both artists united on stage for the live debut of “pikito, pikito.” Choreographed under the artistic direction of Parris Goebel—known for her work with Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga—the performance featured a troupe of dancers executing dynamic routines. The set concluded with Martin, Sampaio, and the dance troupe performing Sampaio’s viral social media choreography for “Vai no Cavalinho.”
For Martin, the Rio showcase adds to a history of major sports entertainment appearances, following his participation in the Super Bowl LX Halftime Show led by Bad Bunny. For Sampaio, the event offered a high-profile platform to showcase Brazilian funk to an international audience.
About the Single: “pikito, pikito”
The single’s title, “pikito, pikito,” derives from a colloquial expression meaning a quick kiss. Musically, the track fuses Latin pop, Brazilian funk, samba, reggaeton, mambo, and salsa, combining Martin’s vocal work with Sampaio’s electronic production.
Production Credits & Release Details
Released under the Sony Music Latin label, the track is now available across all major digital streaming platforms following its live premiere.
- Songwriting: Yoel Henriquez, Eudis Ruiz, Samantha Maria Cámara (“SAMANTHA CAMARA”), Luis Salazar, and Pedro Sampaio
- Production: Federico Vindver, Pedro Sampaio, and Luis Salazar
- Vocal Recording & Production: Jean Rodriguez
- Mixing & Mastering: Mosty