The World Cup final between Spain and Argentina tonight will mark a historic first: a halftime show. For the first time in the tournament's 96-year history, the break will feature performances from global superstars including Shakira, Madonna, BTS, Justin Bieber, Coldplay, Burna Boy, and others.
Halftime Show Details and Controversy
The show will take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with the halftime extended to 25 minutes instead of the usual 15. This change has sparked controversy among traditionalists who associate halftime shows with the Super Bowl. FIFA has described the event as a "landmark celebration at the intersection of sport, music and global impact."
In addition to the main acts, the lineup includes Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel and New York's PS22 Chorus. The performance is curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin and will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, aiming to raise $100 million to expand access to education for children worldwide.
Shakira's Preparations and Insights
Colombian superstar Shakira, who performed at the opening ceremony, revealed in an interview with The Capital Evening Show with Jimmy Hill that she is working to make her final performance distinct. "I played at the inauguration, and now I’m playing at the final. I’ve got to wrap my head around it, make it a little different from what I did at the inauguration," she said.
Shakira hinted at the collaborative nature of the show: "It’s going to be a shared halftime show… It’s going to be pretty historic, five amazing artists, well, four amazing artists plus me. Madonna is going to be there, BTS, Bieber, Coldplay. I really hope that Chris Martin is going to be singing, too. We’ll all get together, and we’ll all figure it out how it’s gonna be, but I’m really curious. I’m as curious as you are right now!"
Artists' Statements and Impact
Justin Bieber expressed his gratitude in a statement: "The FIFA World Cup brings the world together in a way nothing else can. I’m grateful to be part of this halftime show, and even more grateful knowing it’s already helping expand access to education for children around the world."
Burna Boy, who collaborated with Shakira on the tournament's official song "Day Day," described performing at the final as "a privilege and a responsibility" and an opportunity to represent Africa on the global stage. The show is expected to draw a massive global audience, with the World Cup final traditionally being one of the most-watched sporting events worldwide.
