World Cup Final to Feature Spectacular Super Bowl-Style Halftime Show

The FIFA World Cup final is expected to deliver more than just football, with organisers planning a Super Bowl-style halftime entertainment programme that could extend the traditional interval between the two halves of the match.

The final, scheduled to take place on Sunday at the New York–New Jersey Stadium, is expected to feature a halftime break lasting between 20 and 25 minutes, significantly longer than the standard interval. FIFA is preparing an 11-minute live musical performance designed to enhance the global showpiece and provide fans with a major entertainment event alongside the championship decider.

According to sources familiar with the planning, one proposal would see the halftime interval extended to around 20 minutes. Another option under consideration would retain the standard 15-minute break before staging an additional 11-minute performance immediately afterwards. FIFA has yet to confirm which format will ultimately be adopted.

Under the Laws of the Game set by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), the interval between the first and second halves is normally limited to a maximum of 15 minutes. Any extension would therefore require careful coordination to accommodate the planned entertainment while ensuring the smooth running of the final.

The headline performers for the halftime show are expected to include global pop icon Madonna, Colombian superstar Shakira and South Korean K-pop sensation BTS. Canadian singer Justin Bieber has also reportedly been added to the line-up in recent days, strengthening an already impressive list of international performers.

The musical programme is also set to feature Nigerian artist Burna Boy, internationally acclaimed conductor Gustavo Dudamel and the PS22 Chorus performing alongside British rock band Coldplay. Creative direction for the entire production is being overseen by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, who has played a leading role in shaping the event’s artistic vision.

FIFA has experimented with extended halftime entertainment before. During last year’s Club World Cup final, performances by Coldplay, J Balvin, Doja Cat, Tems and Emmanuel Kelly stretched the interval to approximately 24 minutes, providing organisers with a successful template for this year’s expanded production.

The World Cup final is scheduled to kick off at 3:00 p.m. local time in the United States. Before the match, a closing ceremony will begin at 1:30 p.m., featuring an array of internationally recognised entertainers.

Hollywood actor Tom Cruise, Italian singer Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams and popular YouTube personality IShowSpeed are all expected to appear during the pre-match celebrations. Academy Award-winning singer Jennifer Hudson has been chosen to perform the United States national anthem ahead of kick-off.

Attention will also remain firmly fixed on the action on the pitch. Spain have already secured their place in the World Cup final after defeating France 2–0 in the first semi-final in Dallas. Their opponents will be determined by the outcome of the second semi-final between England and Argentina, with that match scheduled to kick off at 8:00 p.m. British time.

As anticipation builds, Sunday’s final promises to combine elite football with one of the most ambitious entertainment programmes ever staged at a FIFA World Cup, reflecting the organisation’s efforts to transform its biggest match into a global sporting and cultural spectacle.