FIFA is planning to introduce a halftime show at the upcoming World Cup final to be held at the Metlife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19. The lineup for the show includes Shakira, Madonna, and the K-pop sensation BTS. This initiative aims to raise $100 million for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, focusing on enhancing children’s access to education and soccer.
The halftime spectacle, curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, is expected to be a Super Bowl-style concert. Past Super Bowl performances have featured iconic artists like Michael Jackson, Prince, and Rihanna. Despite halftime traditionally being a period of player rest in soccer, FIFA is exploring the possibility of extending the break to accommodate the show.
The announcement has sparked 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 the grand stage serves a noble cause of supporting children’s dreams.
Additionally, FIFA revealed that Reggaeton star J Balvin will headline the opening ceremony in Mexico City, celebrating Mexican culture alongside other artists like Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, and Maná. The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, is set to take place from June to July.