FIFA has announced the performers for the World Cup final half-time show, and it’s got people talking!
The line-up for the very first World Cup half-time show has been announced, and football fans have mixed feelings about it.
Excitement is building for the biggest World Cup ever, with 48 teams playing 104 matches across three North American countries – the US, Mexico, and Canada.
Seventy-eight of these games will take place in 11 US cities, with the final happening at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.
Last week, FIFA revealed the star-packed line-up for the all-star opening ceremony in Los Angeles on June 12, featuring Katy Perry, Future, Anitta, LISA, Rema, and Tyla.
There will also be opening ceremonies in Mexico City and Toronto.
Just like the famous Super Bowl half-time shows, the World Cup final will have some of the world’s biggest artists performing.
On Thursday (May 14), FIFA announced that Coldplay’s Chris Martin will put the half-time show together, with Madonna, Shakira, and K-pop group BTS taking the spotlight.
FIFA says the show will support the “FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund,” an important project aiming to raise $100 million to improve education and football access for kids worldwide. For every ticket sold at the World Cup 2026™, $1 will go to this cause.
Reports say the usual 15-minute half-time might be extended to 30 minutes.
Fans quickly shared their thoughts on social media.
One said: “FIFA turning the World Cup final into a concert. Half-time could be 25 minutes or more. This isn’t just football anymore. It’s a festival with a game attached lol.”
Another said: “The Super Bowl has been doing this for years. The World Cup is even bigger worldwide. Imagine the moments we’ve missed. Better late than never.”
A third commented: “Honestly, most people don’t care. It’s not like American football where people watch the Super Bowl just for the half-time show. People watch the World Cup for the football and players. If you want a half-time show, pick artists or superstars who really matter. Who cares about Madonna or Shakira? Get Eminem! Even non-football fans would watch.”
A fourth fan was excited: “LEGENDS!!!!! SO FREAKIN EXCITED LET’S GOO.”
And a fifth wrote: “If it’s well organized, it’s a great addition that adds more excitement to football’s biggest game.”