FIFA World Cup Final to Feature First Halftime Show With Global Music Stars
4 verified4 unconfirmed1 contested
The FIFA World Cup final this Sunday will include the first halftime show in the tournament’s history, curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin. The 11-minute performance will feature Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira, BTS, and Coldplay, blending international artists in a production modeled on the Super Bowl’s halftime formula. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has supported the concept, which also aims to raise funds for youth education through Global Citizen. The show has drawn both excitement and criticism, with some fans arguing it “Americanizes” the World Cup and others objecting to the idea on principle. The performance will take place during the final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium. Producers consulted with NFL field specialists to protect the pitch during the setup and teardown of equipment.
What’s verified
The World Cup final will feature the first halftime show in the tournament’s history.
The show is curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin.
Performers include Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira, BTS, and Coldplay.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino is involved in the initiative.
Where accounts differ
The duration of the halftime show is disputed. One report states the musical performance will be limited to 11 minutes, while another cites unnamed sources saying the show may last up to 25 minutes.
Not yet confirmed
The specific fundraising goal of $100 million for Global Citizen’s youth education efforts is reported by a single source.
Tom Cruise’s scheduled appearance during the closing ceremony is reported by a single source.
The inclusion of Gustavo Dudamel-conducted performances from the New York Philharmonic and the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra is reported by a single source.
The exact match to be broadcast is not confirmed across all sources; one source names Spain vs. Argentina, while others do not specify teams.
Key figures
Chris Martin (Coldplay frontman)
Gianni Infantino (FIFA president)
Hugh Evans (CEO of Global Citizen)
Lee Rolontz (halftime show producer)
Robert Smith (The Cure frontman)
Madonna (performer)
Justin Bieber (performer)
Shakira (performer)
BTS (performer)
Burna Boy (performer, per one source)
Tom Cruise (performer, per one source)
