NEW DELHI: For the first time in its history, the FIFA World Cup final will feature a halftime show, confirmed FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
The landmark event is scheduled for July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, concluding the expanded 48-team tournament. This in-game performance, a significant departure from traditional World Cup practices, will be organized in partnership with advocacy group Global Citizen.
British band Coldplay is playing a role in the selection of the performing artists, fueling speculation about a star-studded lineup. While the specifics of their involvement remain undisclosed, their experience with the 2016 Super Bowl halftime show suggests they could attract major musical talent.
“I can confirm the first ever half-time show at a FIFA World Cup final in New York, New Jersey, in association with Global Citizen,” Infantino announced via Instagram on March 5.
“This will be a historic moment for the FIFA World Cup and a show befitting the biggest sporting event in the world,” he said.
FIFA has yet to confirm whether the standard 15-minute halftime break will be extended to accommodate the performance.
Adding to the excitement, Infantino also revealed that FIFA will take over Times Square in New York City for the final weekend of the 2026 World Cup, hosting events during both the bronze final and the championship match.
This halftime show marks a significant evolution for the World Cup, which has previously featured musical performances only before matches. The 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will be the first to incorporate an in-game musical spectacle.
With a record-breaking 104 matches across the three host nations, the 2026 World Cup is already poised to be a monumental event. The addition of a halftime show at the final promises to be a defining moment, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the performers who will take the stage.
