The half-time interval during the 2026 FIFA World Cup final is expected to be extended to around 30 minutes to accommodate the tournament’s first-ever major half-time concert.
Shakira, BTS, Justin Bieber and Madonna will co-headline the star-studded performance during Sunday’s final between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium. The show will be curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin.
FIFA has confirmed that the concert itself will last approximately 11 minutes, significantly shorter than the full half-time interval. The remaining time will be needed to construct and remove the temporary stage and allow the teams to return to the pitch safely.
The expanded break marks a major departure from football tradition, under which half-time usually lasts 15 minutes. The move introduces a Super Bowl-style entertainment spectacle to the World Cup final for the first time.
Additional performers will include Nigerian Afrobeats star Burna Boy, Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel, Coldplay and New York’s PS22 Chorus. Characters from Sesame Street and the Muppets are also expected to appear.
Shakira and Burna Boy are set to perform “Dai Dai”, the official song of the 2026 tournament. The concert will also support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to expand access to education and football programmes for children around the world.
The show has generated excitement among music fans but has also drawn criticism from some football supporters and commentators, who argue that extending the break disrupts the traditional rhythm of the match.
The World Cup final between defending champions Argentina and Spain will take place on Sunday 19 July, bringing together Lionel Messi’s side and a Spanish team seeking another global title.
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