World Cup final halftime show expected to last up to 25 minutes

The FIFA World Cup final, set to take place on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, will feature an unprecedented halftime show lasting up to 25 minutes. This marks the first time the tournament has incorporated a Super Bowl-style performance during its concluding match. The extended break, which could range between 20 and 25 minutes, includes an approximately 11-minute musical segment led by global stars such as Madonna, Shakira, and the K-pop group BTS. Justin Bieber was recently confirmed as part of the lineup, adding further anticipation to the event. FIFA officials anticipate the halftime duration to hover near 20 minutes, though there is an alternative plan allowing players a traditional 15-minute interval prior to the performance. The exact timing will be influenced by logistical considerations, including the movement of players, setup of the stage, broadcasting needs, and the referee’s approval. While the Laws of the Game, overseen by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), limit halftime to 15 minutes, FIFA’s competition regulations permit exceptions for major events, enabling a longer break within the tournament’s framework. This change follows a precedent set during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final, held at the same venue, where a 24-minute halftime break occurred due to a performance featuring Coldplay, J Balvin, Doja Cat, Tems, and Emmanuel Kelly. Despite the increased duration, organizers have emphasized that Sunday’s show will remain significantly shorter than a typical Super Bowl halftime performance. The event, produced in collaboration with Global Citizen, aims to highlight the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, promoting access to education and football opportunities globally. The halftime production, curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, features a diverse lineup blending genres such as pop, Latin, K-pop, Afrobeats, and orchestral music. Performers include Burna Boy, Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel, and the PS22 Chorus, along with other members of Coldplay. The selection reflects the global appeal of the World Cup and seeks to create a memorable experience for fans worldwide. The festivities begin well before the match starts. FIFA’s closing ceremony is scheduled to commence at 1:30 p.m. local time, featuring appearances by Tom Cruise, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams, and YouTube personality IShowSpeed. Jennifer Hudson will perform the U.S. national anthem before the game. The World Cup final is set to kick off at 3 p.m. local time (3 p.m. ET). Spain has advanced to the championship match following a 2-0 semifinal victory over France in Dallas. Mikel Oyarzabal scored a first-half penalty, and Pedro Porro added a second goal after halftime to secure Spain’s spot in its second World Cup final. The team will face either defending champion Argentina or England, whose matchup takes place on Wednesday in Atlanta. The extended halftime period represents a notable shift in the World Cup final’s format, as FIFA endeavors to merge the sport’s tradition with a high-profile entertainment spectacle. The decision balances the need for player rest, broadcast requirements, and the growing expectations of a global audience. As preparations continue, all eyes will be on the stadium, ready to witness both the athletic prowess of the teams and the cultural significance of the halftime show.