FIFA Hoping For 20-Minute Halftime Break During Final Match Sunday
FIFA is reportedly aiming to ensure the World Cup final's halftime doesn't run too long.
MetLife Stadium will host a star-studded halftime show curated by Coldplay's Chris Martin. Shakira, Madonna, Justin Bieber, BTS, Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, and PS22 Chorus are scheduled to perform in between the action of Sunday's final.
According to The Athletic's Dan Sheldon and Adam Crafton, FIFA is planning for halftime to last no more than 20 minutes. FIFA officials haven't confirmed that length, but they have said that the musical performances are scheduled to last 11 minutes.
While the Super Bowl halftime show typically runs 20 to 30 minutes, the short end of that interval would still be longer than what is usually allowed. International Football Association Board rules state that halftime should not last beyond 15 minutes but "may be altered only with the referee's permission."
Previewing World Cup halftime show
Back in May, FIFA announced a first-of-its-kind World Cup halftime concert. The show aims to raise $100 million for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.
"As the world comes together for the biggest match in football on 19 July 2026 in New York New Jersey, this historic show will also shine a light on a greater purpose by supporting the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund and our shared mission to expand access to quality education and football opportunities for children worldwide," FIFA President Gianni Infantino said. "It will be a celebration of football, unity and shared humanity that will resonate far beyond the final whistle."
However, some international fans may not witness the musical interlude. BBC reportedly does not plan to air the halftime show, instead prioritizing game analysis.
Spain punched a ticket to the men's World Cup final with a 2-0 win over France on Tuesday afternoon. They'll face the winner of Wednesday's semifinal showdown between England and Argentina at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The final starts Sunday at 3 p.m. ET on Fox.
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This story was originally published July 14, 2026 at 3:09 PM.