FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup final will have a half-time show.
It seems FIFA’s President is fully embracing the “when in Rome” mentality after announcing on Instagram that the 2026 World Cup final in New Jersey will feature a Super Bowl-style halftime show.
The final will take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, which will be rebranded as New York New Jersey Stadium for the tournament. This will mark FIFA’s first-ever World Cup final halftime show on 19 July 2026.
Infantino confirmed the news on Instagram, where he said: “I can confirm the first-ever halftime show at a FIFA World Cup final in New York New Jersey. This will be a historic moment for the FIFA World Cup and a show befitting the biggest sporting event in the world.”
While details remain scarce, it’s believed the halftime period will be extended to accommodate the entertainment. Football’s usual 15-minute break will likely be lengthened for this special performance.
He added: “We also discussed how FIFA will take over Times Square for the final weekend of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including both the bronze final and the main final. These two incredible matches will feature some of the best players in the world, and what better way to celebrate them than in the historic Times Square in New York City.”
Known for its lavish halftime entertainment, the US is no stranger to high-profile performances, particularly during the Super Bowl halftime show. Recent stars have included Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, Usher, Rihanna and The Weeknd, among others.
Already the most-watched sports tournament in the world, this initiative may help boost those numbers even more by tapping into fandoms that don’t usually watch football.
While performers for the World Cup are yet to be confirmed, Infantino hinted at a “list” of artists, with UK band Coldplay helping select them.
He concluded: “I also want to thank Chris Martin and Phil Harvey of Coldplay, who will be working with us at FIFA to finalise the list of artists who will perform during the halftime show, as well as at Times Square.”
