FIFA Introduces Halftime Show for 2026 World Cup Final

For the first time in history, the FIFA World Cup final will feature a halftime show, bringing a new entertainment element to the tournament. Scheduled to take place on July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, this initiative mirrors the high-profile performances seen in American sports events like the Super Bowl.

The halftime show will be co-produced by FIFA in collaboration with a global advocacy organization, with British band Coldplay leading the selection of artists for the performance. Traditionally, World Cup finals have not included a halftime show, with the break solely dedicated to team discussions and rest. The introduction of this entertainment segment represents a significant shift in the event’s format, though FIFA has yet to confirm whether the standard 15-minute halftime duration will be extended to accommodate the performance.

Reactions from fans have been mixed. Some view it as an exciting enhancement to the spectacle of the final, while others worry that it could disrupt the traditional football experience and commercialize the sport further.

This addition is part of broader changes for the 2026 World Cup, which will also feature an expanded 48-team format and will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

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