The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) is taking a page from the NFL’s book. There will now be stars to admire during the halftime break of the 2026 World Cup final.
The 2026 World Cup final in the United States will have a halftime show. This was confirmed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday via Instagram: “This will be a historic moment for the World Cup – and a show worthy of the world’s greatest sporting event.” The governing body of world football, FIFA, is drawing inspiration from the pop culture spectacle of the Super Bowl.
Fittingly, the final will also take place at the MetLife Stadium of the NFL teams New York Giants and New York Jets on July 19, 2026. Infantino did not yet reveal which act spectators can expect. In any case, the Super Bowl is known for star power and has already provided a stage for artists such as Michael Jackson, Prince and Lady Gaga. This year, US rapper Kendrick Lamar performed.
It also remains to be seen whether the halftime break of the World Cup final game will be extended from 15 minutes to 25 minutes or more. During the NFL football final, the game is interrupted for 30 minutes to set up the stage as elaborately as possible and to perform the act. It therefore seems more than likely that a modification of the halftime length will be necessary.
Coldplay advises FIFA
The British pop rock band Coldplay is to be part of a “takeover” of New York’s Times Square during the final weekend. In addition, the group, fronted by singer Chris Martin, will provide advice on the organization and implementation of the halftime show.
