2026 FIFA World Cup Final
For the first time ever, FIFA will stage a musical performance during the halftime interval of the 2026 World Cup final. The break will last 15 minutes. Headlining the show will be global superstars Shakira, Madonna, and South Korean group BTS. The show is being curated by Chris Martin, lead singer of Coldplay. The final is scheduled for July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2026 World Cup will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026. All participants for the 2026 World Cup have now been confirmed. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Round of 32. Additionally, the eight best third-placed teams from the group stage will also move on to the knockout rounds.
Against the backdrop of World Cup preparations, Ukraine's national team lost 3–1 to Sweden in the playoff semifinals. In that match, Sweden's Viktor Gyökeres scored in the 6th, 51st, and 72nd minutes, while Ukraine's only goal came from Ponomarenko in the 90+1 minute.
The group stage draw for the 2026 World Cup is as follows:
- Group A: Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, Czech Republic
- Group B: Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar, Switzerland
- Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland
- Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, Turkey
- Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador
- Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia
- Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand
- Group H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay
- Group I: France, Senegal, Iraq, Norway
- Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan
- Group K: Portugal, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, Colombia
- Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama
This World Cup promises to be landmark, not only for its sporting events but also for the cultural programming surrounding the final.
Organizing a halftime music show at the World Cup final reflects FIFA's ambition to blend sport and culture, creating a unique experience for viewers. Featuring icons like Shakira, Madonna, and BTS could boost the tournament's appeal, drawing in new audiences and highlighting the event's global nature.
As excitement builds for the 2026 World Cup, it's worth noting that the tournament will also feature spectacular opening ceremonies. Katy Perry is set to headline one of these events, promising fans an unforgettable start to the matches. With such high-profile performances lined up, the World Cup is shaping up to be a historic celebration of both sports and music.