In a move that signals a significant shift in the FIFA World Cup’s entertainment strategy, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has officially confirmed that the 2026 Men’s World Cup final, held at the newly rebranded New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium), will feature a Super Bowl-style halftime show.
This landmark event, scheduled for July 19, 2026, marks the first time in the tournament’s history that a halftime performance of this scale will be incorporated into the final match.
Infantino revealed the news through an Instagram post, stating, “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.”
The announcement has sparked considerable excitement and speculation among fans and industry insiders.
While specific details regarding the performers remain undisclosed, FIFA has indicated that the halftime break will be extended beyond the standard 15-minute interval to accommodate the elaborate production.
Furthermore, FIFA has unveiled plans to transform Times Square into a central hub for the final weekend of the tournament. “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,” Infantino added.
“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.”
The decision to introduce a halftime show draws clear parallels with the highly acclaimed entertainment spectacles associated with the Super Bowl.
The United States, known for its expertise in producing large-scale events, will bring its experience to the world’s most watched sporting event.
Recent Super Bowl halftime performances have featured global superstars such as Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, Usher, Rihanna, and The Weeknd, setting a high standard for the upcoming World Cup show.
FIFA’s strategic move is expected to attract a broader audience, potentially boosting viewership by appealing to fans who may not typically follow soccer. By integrating a high-profile entertainment component, the tournament aims to capture the attention of a more diverse demographic.
Adding to the anticipation, Infantino disclosed that Coldplay’s Chris Martin and Phil Harvey will play a pivotal role in curating the artist lineup for the halftime show and Times Square festivities.
“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,” he confirmed.
The announcement comes amidst ongoing discussions about the commercial aspects of sports, with Insider Sport reporting on related developments such as Coca-Cola resolving a legal dispute for Club World Cup sponsorship and the launch of a new sports division by FIFA and NFL legal partner gunnercooke.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is already poised to be a landmark event.
With the introduction of a halftime show and the Times Square takeover, FIFA is clearly aiming to elevate the tournament to new heights of global entertainment and engagement.
