The halftime show at the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina was a groundbreaking event. Held at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, 2026, it featured an array of global musical talents, turning the event into a cross-continental celebration.
At halftime, the match remained a deadlock with a score of 0-0. However, FIFA claimed a victory in organizing its first World Cup final halftime show. The show boasted a star-studded lineup that included performers like Madonna, Coldplay, and BTS.
FIFA managed to pull off its first-ever World Cup final halftime show, featuring a parade of many of the biggest names in music.
Singers and bands from varying continents brought a unique flair to the show:
- North America: Justin Bieber and Madonna, whose latest release topped the Billboard 200.
- Asia: BTS, the K-pop sensation.
- South America: Shakira, dubbed the World Cup queen, and conductor Gustavo Dudamel.
- Africa: Burna Boy, collaborating with Shakira for this year’s official World Cup anthem.
- Europe: Coldplay, led by Chris Martin.
- Australia: Emmanuel Kelly, originally from Iraq.
The performance embraced themes of unity and togetherness. Notable figures and entertainers contributed to the lively spectacle. Madonna’s entrance, accompanied by Brazilian football legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho in a dune buggy, was memorable.
Various segments highlighted cultural references and social media phenomena, including a reenactment by orchestral musicians of the famous Norwegian row and a homage to Patrice Lumumba, performed by Congolese superfan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga.
FIFA also used the platform to promote its philanthropic initiative, the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. This campaign aims to raise $100 million to enhance educational and soccer opportunities for children globally.
Children from Staten Island’s PS22 Chorus joined Chris Martin to deliver a colorful performance marked by the message of love. The fund’s website calls for harnessing the ‘power of love’ to combat poverty and protect the environment.
Despite the apolitical nature of the message, the presence of prominent figures like Melania Trump and President Trump introduced a complex backdrop to the messaging.
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