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United States to host World Cup halftime spectacular

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United States to host World Cup halftime spectacular

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United States – FIFA has announced that the 2026 World Cup final, to be held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, will feature a Super Bowl-style halftime show headlined by Madonna, Shakira, and South Korean group BTS. The new format will debut during the championship match of the tournament, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The decision marks a clear break from traditional football halftimes, which are generally limited to player rest, tactical discussions, and minimal in-stadium entertainment rather than large-scale, on-field performances. United States – FIFA officials say the 15-minute show is being developed with major production partners to manage staging, choreography, and rapid setup and removal while keeping the pitch in playing condition. The organization aims to combine the World Cup final with a high-profile cultural broadcast, mirroring the entertainment model used for the NFL’s Super Bowl. Shakira previously performed at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, while Madonna headlined the Super Bowl XLVI halftime show in 2012. Broadcasters expect the new format to drive record viewership in the United States and in international markets.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2010 Shakira performs at South Africa World Cup
2012 Madonna headlines Super Bowl XLVI halftime
2022 FIFA confirms 2026 World Cup host nations
Earlier this week FIFA unveils halftime show format
Earlier this week Madonna, Shakira, BTS confirmed lineup
2026 World Cup final scheduled at MetLife Stadium
2026 Fifteen-minute show window logistically planned
2026 Broadcasters anticipate higher global audience

Why This Matters to You

This halftime show could make the 2026 World Cup final a must-see event, even if you're not a soccer fan. It's a blend of sports and popular culture, featuring global music icons. If you've enjoyed Super Bowl halftime shows, you might want to mark your calendar.

The Bottom Line

FIFA's decision to include a halftime show is a big shift from traditional football norms. It's a clear attempt to boost viewership and appeal to a broader audience. If you're a fan of Madonna, Shakira, or BTS, this could be a performance worth forwarding to fellow fans.