Madonna, Shakira and BTS set to headline historic FIFA World Cup final halftime show
FIFA has confirmed that global superstars Madonna, Shakira, and BTS will headline a historic halftime show during the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, creating one of the biggest entertainment events ever linked to international football.
The performance will take place during the World Cup final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where organisers are preparing a large scale music production inspired by the famous Super Bowl halftime format. FIFA officials say the event is designed to combine sport, music, and global culture on an unprecedented level.
According to reports, Coldplay frontman Chris Martin will help curate the show, which is expected to feature high energy performances, advanced stage production, and appearances from several international artists. FIFA president Gianni Infantino described the occasion as a “historic moment” for the tournament.
The announcement has generated huge excitement among football and music fans worldwide, particularly because this will be the first official halftime entertainment show in a FIFA World Cup final. Previous tournaments traditionally featured only opening and closing ceremonies rather than large scale mid match concerts.
Shakira’s inclusion has attracted particular attention due to her long association with FIFA tournaments. The Colombian singer previously performed the famous 2010 World Cup anthem “Waka Waka” and has appeared at multiple international football events over the years.
Meanwhile, the addition of BTS is expected to boost global interest among younger audiences and K pop fans, while Madonna’s participation adds another major international music name to the event’s already star powered lineup.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and will feature an expanded 48 team tournament for the first time in history. Organisers believe the halftime show could become one of the most watched live entertainment performances ever broadcast globally.
Fans across social media have already reacted with excitement to the announcement, with many predicting the show could rival or even surpass some of the biggest Super Bowl halftime performances in recent years.
The final itself is expected to attract hundreds of millions of viewers worldwide, making the halftime performance one of the most anticipated entertainment moments of 2026.
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