The 2026 FIFA World Cup final, scheduled for July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, is set to break new ground with a Super Bowl-style half-time show. In an exciting announcement, FIFA President Gianni Infantino revealed that Coldplay's lead singer Chris Martin and band manager Phil Harvey will play a pivotal role in selecting a “list of artists” to take the stage during the event’s half-time.
This innovation is particularly significant as the World Cup, unlike other major sporting events like the Champions League final, has never featured a half-time show before. While typical NFL half-times last around 15 minutes, this inaugural World Cup half-time will aim to deliver an unforgettable performance in line with the grandeur of the tournament, extending to accommodate a lively spectacle.
Infantino shared the news via Instagram, emphasizing the historic nature of the occasion. "I can confirm the first ever half-time show at a FIFA World Cup final in New York New Jersey," he stated. "This will be a historic moment for the FIFA World Cup and a show befitting the biggest sporting event in the world."
The move to include a high-profile music act is reminiscent of the Super Bowl, where performances have drawn record audiences, such as Kendrick Lamar's headline show in New Orleans, which captured 133.5 million viewers. Coldplay, who previously headlined the Super Bowl in 2016 alongside Beyoncé and Bruno Mars, adds star power to this innovative initiative.
With an ever-evolving approach to sports entertainment, the 2026 World Cup is set to redefine the fan experience, combining sports and music in spectacular fashion. Football fans and music lovers alike are eagerly anticipating what’s to come from the collaborative efforts of Coldplay and FIFA in the lead-up to the big day.
This innovation is particularly significant as the World Cup, unlike other major sporting events like the Champions League final, has never featured a half-time show before. While typical NFL half-times last around 15 minutes, this inaugural World Cup half-time will aim to deliver an unforgettable performance in line with the grandeur of the tournament, extending to accommodate a lively spectacle.
Infantino shared the news via Instagram, emphasizing the historic nature of the occasion. "I can confirm the first ever half-time show at a FIFA World Cup final in New York New Jersey," he stated. "This will be a historic moment for the FIFA World Cup and a show befitting the biggest sporting event in the world."
The move to include a high-profile music act is reminiscent of the Super Bowl, where performances have drawn record audiences, such as Kendrick Lamar's headline show in New Orleans, which captured 133.5 million viewers. Coldplay, who previously headlined the Super Bowl in 2016 alongside Beyoncé and Bruno Mars, adds star power to this innovative initiative.
With an ever-evolving approach to sports entertainment, the 2026 World Cup is set to redefine the fan experience, combining sports and music in spectacular fashion. Football fans and music lovers alike are eagerly anticipating what’s to come from the collaborative efforts of Coldplay and FIFA in the lead-up to the big day.
