The 2026 FIFA World Cup final, set to take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, will feature a halftime show for the first time in the tournament’s history. FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed this groundbreaking addition, describing it as a “historic moment” for the World Cup. The show will be produced in collaboration with Global Citizen, an advocacy organization, and British band Coldplay will assist in curating the lineup of artists, though it is unclear if they will perform themselves.
This decision marks a departure from tradition, as FIFA has never included a halftime show in its finals since the tournament’s inception in 1930. The move draws inspiration from the Super Bowl’s iconic halftime performances, aiming to enhance the spectacle of what is already the most-watched sporting event globally. However, questions remain about whether the standard 15-minute halftime duration will be extended to accommodate the performance.
The 2026 World Cup will be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with matches spread across 16 cities. The tournament will also feature an expanded format with 48 teams competing in 104 matches. The opening match is scheduled for June 11 at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca. Additionally, Infantino announced plans for a “takeover” of New York’s Times Square during the final weekend, coinciding with both the third-place playoff and the championship match