Shakira, Madonna & BTS Will Headline the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show
The FIFA World Cup has delivered unforgettable moments for nearly a century. From dramatic goals to shocking upsets, the tournament has always been about football. In 2026, that tradition will get a major addition.
For the first time in World Cup history, the final will feature a Super Bowl-style halftime show. FIFA has confirmed that global music icons Shakira, Madonna, and BTS will headline the performance on July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
A New Era for the World Cup Final Kicks Off
Shakira / IG / The World Cup final is already one of the most-watched sporting events in the world. Now, FIFA is adding a music spectacle that could attract an even larger global audience.
The move marks a significant shift for the tournament. While opening ceremonies and pre-match performances have long been part of the World Cup experience, a dedicated halftime show has never been included in the final. That changes in 2026, when music and football will share the spotlight in a way fans have never seen before.
The idea reportedly came from Chris Martin, lead singer of Coldplay. According to reports, Martin first imagined a large-scale halftime production after watching a previous World Cup several years ago. His vision has now become reality.
Martin is helping curate the show alongside Global Citizen, the international nonprofit known for organizing high-profile events that combine entertainment with social causes. That partnership gives the halftime performance a purpose beyond entertainment.
Shakira, Madonna & BTS are the Perfect Lineup
FIFA could hardly have assembled a bigger group of performers. Each act brings a massive international following and a proven track record on the world’s biggest stages.
Shakira’s connection to the World Cup is especially strong. Her 2010 anthem, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” became one of the most recognizable songs in tournament history. She also performed at previous World Cups and remains closely associated with the event.
Her role in 2026 goes even further. She is also set to headline the opening ceremony at Mexico City’s legendary Estadio Azteca on June 11. There, she will perform “Dai Dai,” the official song of the tournament, alongside Nigerian superstar Burna Boy.
Madonna brings another layer of star power. As one of the most influential artists in pop music history, she has spent decades redefining live performance. Her experience headlining the Super Bowl halftime show in 2012 makes her a natural fit for an event of this scale.
Then there is BTS. The K-pop phenomenon has built one of the most passionate fan bases in modern music. Their global reach stretches across continents, making them one of the most recognizable acts on the planet.
Together, the three performers represent different generations, genres, and audiences. That combination gives FIFA a lineup capable of appealing to viewers in nearly every corner of the world.
The performance will help raise awareness and funds for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. The initiative aims to raise $100 million to improve access to education and football programs for children around the world.
That charitable focus adds a meaningful dimension to the event. Instead of serving purely as a commercial attraction, the show will also shine a light on opportunities for young people who lack access to educational resources.
Fans are Divided Over the Decision
FIFA / IG / Not everyone is celebrating the announcement, though. While many supporters are excited about the star-studded lineup, others are less enthusiastic.
Some football fans believe the World Cup final does not need additional entertainment. They argue that the match itself is already the main attraction and worry that a halftime show could distract from the sport.
Others see the move as another example of growing commercialization in football. Critics fear that borrowing ideas from American sports could change the identity of the tournament.