FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup final will feature an exciting half-time show inspired by the Super Bowl, marking a historic first for the tournament. The World Cup, set to be the largest in history with 48 teams, will culminate at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, 2026.
Infantino made the announcement via Instagram on Wednesday morning, revealing that the show will take place after the first 45 minutes of the match, and will be “befitting the biggest sporting event in the world.”
The FIFA president also disclosed that British pop rock band Coldplay will be partnering with FIFA to select and attract musical performers for the high-profile event.
In his post, Infantino shared: “It was my pleasure to speak with friends and colleagues at the FIFA World Cup 26: FIFA Commercial & Media Partners Convention in Dallas, where we discussed some very exciting plans for the biggest-ever FIFA World Cup in 2026. I can confirm the first-ever half-time show at the FIFA World Cup final in New York/New Jersey, in association with Global Citizen. This will be a historic moment for the FIFA World Cup, and a show befitting the biggest sporting event in the world.”
He also mentioned that FIFA plans to take over Times Square during the final weekend of the tournament, with exciting events planned for both the bronze final and the main final match. “What better way to celebrate these incredible matches than in the historic Times Square in New York City?” Infantino added.
Infantino thanked Global Citizen CEO Hugh Evans and Coldplay’s Chris Martin and Phil Harvey for their collaboration in finalizing the artist lineup for both the half-time show and Times Square events.
The Super Bowl’s legendary half-time shows have evolved since its inception in 1967, with performances by icons like Michael Jackson, Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Lady Gaga. The 2026 World Cup promises to follow suit, delivering a spectacle that will rival any major sporting event.