FIFA is planning to introduce a halftime show for the World Cup final this summer, inspired by the popular Super Bowl performances. The first-ever World Cup final halftime show will feature Shakira, Madonna, and K-pop sensation BTS at the Metlife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19. The event, organized by FIFA, aims to raise $100 million US for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, focused on enhancing children’s access to education and soccer.
The halftime show, curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, was announced through a video on Coldplay’s Instagram page, where Sesame Street characters Elmo and Cookie Monster made an appearance alongside BTS. While the Super Bowl is known for its iconic halftime shows, soccer matches traditionally reserve halftime for player rest as per the International Football Association Board rules, with a 15-minute break. It is yet to be seen if the duration will be extended for the performance.
The announcement has stirred discussions online, with some fans debating whether halftime shows should be exclusive to American football. However, FIFA President Gianni Infantino believes that combining music and football on a global platform for a charitable cause is significant. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, will feature J Balvin at the opening ceremony in Mexico City, celebrating Mexican culture with other renowned artists.
The upcoming World Cup, set to take place from June through July, promises to be a grand event with a unique halftime show experience for soccer fans worldwide.
