Shakira, Madonna, and BTS to Headline Halftime Show at the 2026 World Cup Final

FIFA changes World Cup tradition in 2026 final

Shakira to lead historic performance

World Cup introduces musical halftime show

FIFA confirmed Thursday that Shakira, Madonna, and BTS will perform during the 2026 World Cup final.

The match will take place on July 19 in New York City, according to EFE.

For the first time in tournament history, the World Cup 2026 final will feature a halftime show.

The decision marks a major shift in the traditional format of the tournament.

FIFA has not yet detailed how long the official halftime break will last.

World Cup 2026 final will feature historic halftime show

Shakira, BTS, and Madonna will headline the first-ever halftime show at a World Cup final, which will take place July 19 at MetLife Stadium. https://t.co/aPBL0ya59E pic.twitter.com/My9CzL4DZo

— EL HERALDO (@elheraldoco) May 14, 2026

However, all indications suggest the halftime period will exceed the standard 15-minute break.

Why it matters: FIFA is attempting to move the World Cup closer to the massive entertainment model commonly associated with American sports.

The inclusion of a halftime show mirrors the format used during events such as the Super Bowl.

The performance will also combine international artists representing different musical styles and global audiences.

Shakira will provide Latin representation.

Madonna will headline the American pop segment.

BTS will bring the global K-pop phenomenon to the World Cup 2026 stage.

Shakira strengthens her connection to the World Cup

“Shakira, Madonna, and BTS will perform during halftime of the World Cup final on July 19 in New York, similar to the Super Bowl.”
https://t.co/DMODw4UnA7

— EL PAÍS (@el_pais) May 14, 2026

The Colombian singer will once again be closely linked to the World Cup.

Last week, “Dai Dai,” the official song of the 2026 World Cup, was released.

The track was created by Shakira, who previously became part of World Cup history with Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).

That song became the official anthem of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

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FIFA has not yet confirmed whether “Dai Dai” will be performed during the main halftime show.

Details regarding the order of performances also remain unknown.

Shakira’s presence further reinforces the importance of Latin music within the event.

The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Chris Martin participated in artist selection

Chris Martin was reportedly involved in selecting the performers.

The process was coordinated through the nonprofit production company Global Citizen.

According to organizers, the goal is to combine different cultural expressions.

FIFA aims to merge American pop culture with Latin rhythms and South Korean music.

The organization has not yet revealed details regarding stage production.

Possible guest performers also remain unknown.

The announcement follows FIFA’s first experiments with halftime entertainment last year.

That test took place during the FIFA Club World Cup.

FIFA Club World Cup served as rehearsal

FIFA previously experimented with a halftime performance during the Club World Cup final played between Paris Saint-Germain F.C. and Chelsea F.C..

The match was held in the same stadium that will host the 2026 World Cup final.

That event featured performances by J Balvin, Doja Cat, and Nigerian singer Tems.

The halftime interval lasted approximately 25 minutes.

The measure was considered a rehearsal for the upcoming World Cup.

FIFA has not yet confirmed whether the 2026 final will feature a similarly extended halftime break.

Last week, the organization also introduced artists for the tournament’s opening ceremonies.

Among the names announced were J Balvin and Alejandro Fernández for events in Mexico.

In the United States, Katy Perry and Anitta are scheduled to perform.