New York, Jul 15 (V7N)- The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is set to introduce a Super Bowl-style halftime show, with organizers planning a longer-than-usual break featuring a special musical performance.
According to the organizers' plan, the halftime break of the final could be extended to around 20 to 25 minutes. A special 11-minute concert is scheduled to take place at the New York-New Jersey Stadium at 1:00 am Bangladesh time on Sunday (July 20).
International music stars Madonna, Shakira and South Korean K-pop group BTS are expected to perform together during the event.
Sources within FIFA said discussions are ongoing regarding the format. One proposal is to extend halftime to approximately 20 minutes, while another option is to maintain the traditional 15-minute football break followed by the concert.
However, according to the rules of International Football Association Board (IFAB), the halftime interval for players cannot exceed 15 minutes. FIFA is therefore considering how to organize the special event while complying with football regulations.
Previously, the halftime show at the 2025 Club World Cup final in New York lasted around 24 minutes, featuring performances by artists including Coldplay, J Balvin, Doja Cat, Tems and Emmanuel Kelly.
The closing ceremony of the World Cup final will begin at 1:30 pm local time on Sunday (July 19), before the final match kicks off at 3:00 pm.
The closing ceremony lineup is expected to include performances by Tom Cruise, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams and popular content creator IShowSpeed. Singer Jennifer Hudson will perform the United States national anthem.
Meanwhile, Spain have reached the final after defeating France 2-0 in the semi-final. Their opponent will be decided from the second semi-final between England and Argentina.
END/SMA/AJ
