The FIFA World Cup final is making history this year by introducing its first-ever Super Bowl-style halftime show. FIFA confirmed that global music stars Madonna, Shakira, and BTS will headline the major event during the championship match this summer.
The performance marks a major shift for the international soccer tournament, which traditionally only features brief halftime breaks without large-scale entertainment. Organizers hope the star-studded musical event will attract younger audiences and expand the tournament’s global appeal even further.
Madonna Joins Global Superstars For Historic FIFA Event
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According to CBS News, the halftime show will take place during the FIFA World Cup final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The event will feature performances from some of the most internationally recognized music acts in the world.
Madonna will share the stage with Latin music icon Shakira and K-pop sensation BTS during the groundbreaking performance. FIFA selected the artists specifically because of their enormous worldwide popularity and ability to connect with audiences across cultures and generations. Coldplay frontman Chris Martin helped announce the event online alongside characters from Sesame Street, including Elmo. FIFA also revealed that several Muppets, including Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy, will appear during the halftime celebration.
The Halftime Show Will Also Support Children’s Education
Beyond entertainment, the event also aims to raise money for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. FIFA announced that one dollar from every tournament ticket sold will support efforts to improve children’s access to education and soccer programs worldwide.
Madonna described participating in the event as deeply meaningful because education gives children opportunities to create better futures. Shakira also explained that music and education have both shaped her life, making the project especially personal to her. FIFA officials now face one major challenge involving the halftime show itself. Traditional soccer halftime lasts only 15 minutes, meaning organizers may need to extend the break to fit the large-scale production without disrupting players and match preparation routines.
