FIFA announces first-ever World Cup final halftime show for 2026

On July 8, 2026, FIFA officially announced that the 2026 World Cup final will feature an 11-minute halftime show for the first time in the tournament's history. The performance will be headlined by Justin Bieber, Madonna, Shakira, and the group BTS. Chris Martin, lead singer of Coldplay, has been appointed as the creative director for the event. The production is part of a social initiative aimed at raising 100 million dollars to support global access to education and football for children. Currently, over 50 million dollars have already been collected. The funding mechanism includes a one-dollar donation from every World Cup match ticket sold. The event is also expected to feature appearances by Sesame Street and The Muppets.