FIFA is set to make history by introducing the first-ever Super Bowl-style halftime show at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, marking a major departure from football tradition.
The final will be played on Sunday, July 19, at New York New Jersey Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 10:00pm East Africa Time (EAT).
During the interval, fans around the world will be treated to an 11-minute live performance featuring global music icons Madonna, Shakira, and BTS. The show has been curated by Chris Martin of Coldplay and will be broadcast to millions of viewers worldwide.
Traditionally, the Laws of the Game limit halftime to a maximum of 15 minutes. However, FIFA is working with the International Football Association Board (IFAB) to extend the break to between 20 and 25 minutes, while aiming to keep the interruption as close to 20 minutes as possible.
Production crews are expected to assemble and dismantle the stage in less than nine minutes to minimize disruption and protect the playing surface.
The halftime spectacle forms part of FIFA’s partnership with Global Citizen in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative seeking to raise 100 million US dollars to expand access to quality education and football opportunities for children worldwide.
More than 30 million US dollars has already been raised, with one dollar from every ticket sold for the 2026 FIFA World Cup contributing to social impact projects.
Announcing the performers, FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the event would unite football, music, and philanthropy on the sport’s biggest stage.
“Madonna, Shakira and BTS are global icons whose music transcends borders and generations, and we are proud to welcome them to the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show curated by Chris Martin of Coldplay,” Infantino said.
Fans attending the final will be allowed into the stadium from 6:00pm EAT, while the closing ceremony is scheduled to begin at 8:30pm EAT ahead of the 10:00pm EAT kick-off.
The first finalist has already been confirmed after Spain defeated France 2-0 in the semi-finals at Dallas Stadium. Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro secured Spain’s place in the final, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between England and Argentina.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup champions will not only lift football’s biggest prize but will do so in the first World Cup final to feature a Super Bowl-style halftime entertainment show.
