2026 World Cup final to feature halftime show

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has announced that the 2026 World Cup final will feature a Super Bowl-style halftime show, marking a historic first for the tournament.

The final, set to take place at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium on July 19, will conclude the expanded 48-team competition with a grand spectacle.

In a statement on Instagram, Infantino promised “a show befitting the biggest sporting event in the world” following the first half. British band Coldplay will collaborate with FIFA to help curate the lineup of performers, though it remains uncertain whether the halftime break will be extended to accommodate the show.

Infantino also revealed that FIFA will take over New York City’s Times Square during the final weekend to celebrate both the bronze medal match and the championship final.

“These will be two incredible matches… what better way to celebrate them than in historic Times Square,” he said.

He extended his gratitude to Global Citizen CEO Hugh Evans for assisting in organizing the event and acknowledged Coldplay’s Chris Martin and Phil Harvey for their role in selecting the artists.

The Super Bowl halftime show, which now attracts more viewers than the game itself, has previously featured global superstars such as Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, and Rihanna.