The World Cup Final Is Getting Its First-Ever Halftime Show

For the first time in history, the World Cup final will have a halftime show. The match between Spain and Argentina is set for Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. FIFA, the organization that runs world soccer, got the idea from the NFL's famous Super Bowl halftime shows. Fans can expect a big performance, a special stage, and a halftime break that lasts longer than normal.

Chris Martin of the band Coldplay organized the show's lineup. Performers include Justin Bieber, Shakira, Burna Boy, BTS, Madonna, and Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel. The PS22 Chorus from New York City will join Coldplay on stage. Characters from Sesame Street and The Muppets are also expected to make an appearance.

FIFA says the event brings together football, music, and social impact. The show will be broadcast to millions of viewers across the globe. It will also support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to raise $100 million. That money is meant to help children around the world get better access to education and soccer.

The halftime break is now expected to last around 20 minutes. FIFA originally said it would be just 11 minutes long, but sources told The Athletic that the plan has grown. For comparison, Super Bowl halftimes typically run between 20 and 30 minutes. That is much longer than the strict 13-minute breaks used during regular NFL games.

The longer break is stirring up debate, especially in the soccer world. The International Football Association Board says halftime should not exceed 15 minutes. Going beyond that limit is very unusual and puts players in an unfamiliar situation. Coaches need to make sure their players stay warm and physically ready to compete.

Colombia's head coach Néstor Lorenzo spoke out after a long halftime at the 2024 Copa America final. He said, 'This could affect the players' fitness. They could cool down too much.' In that game, players waited around 26 minutes before the second half began. This kind of delay is new for soccer players who are used to short breaks.

Building the stage on the field is another big challenge for organizers. The stage must go up and come down quickly during the halftime break. That leaves less time for field crews to water the grass and repair any worn patches. A field that is dry or damaged can slow the ball down and hurt the quality of play.

This type of halftime show is very new to the sport of soccer. Halftime performances have been a long tradition in American football but are rare at soccer matches. FIFA hopes the show will bring in fans who do not usually watch soccer, especially since the World Cup is being held in the United States. Sports entertainment is a huge part of American culture, and FIFA wants to be a part of that.