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Image Credit: FIFA.com
The performance, announced by FIFA and Global Citizen, will take place during the final of the FIFA World Cup 2026, the largest edition of the tournament in history. Curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin and produced by Global Citizen, the halftime show is designed to become more than a music spectacle: it will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, a campaign aiming to raise USD 100 million for children’s access to quality education and football opportunities worldwide.
A World Cup Final Halftime Show for the First Time in FIFA History
For the first time, the World Cup final will feature a major halftime performance in the style of a global entertainment event. The show will be staged at New York New Jersey Stadium, also known as MetLife Stadium, where the 2026 final will decide the next world champion.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described Madonna, Shakira and BTS as global icons whose music crosses borders and generations. Their selection reflects FIFA’s ambition to turn the 2026 final into a cultural moment reaching far beyond football.
Madonna, Shakira and BTS Bring Three Generations of Global Pop to Football’s Biggest Stage
The lineup brings together three of the most recognizable names in modern music. Madonna adds decades of pop influence and stadium-scale performance experience. Shakira returns to the World Cup stage with a unique legacy, having previously helped define the tournament’s musical identity through iconic football anthems. BTS brings one of the world’s most powerful fan communities and a global K-pop presence capable of mobilizing millions of viewers online.
According to FIFA, the show will be broadcast live to fans around the world, making it one of the most-watched music performances of 2026.
Chris Martin Curates a Show Built Around Unity
Chris Martin, best known as the lead singer of Coldplay, will curate the halftime show. FIFA says the performance will be centered on unity and openness, combining football, music and a message of shared global responsibility.
The production will be handled by Global Citizen in partnership with Live Nation and Done + Dusted, bringing together major experience in live events, global campaigns and broadcast entertainment.
The Education Fund Behind the Performance
The halftime show will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, created to expand access to education and football for children in underserved communities. The initiative aims to raise USD 100 million, with more than USD 30 million already collected.
FIFA has also announced that USD 1 from every FIFA World Cup 2026 match ticket will be donated to social impact projects around the world. The fund will support organizations working on education, sport and community-led programs in several countries.
Sesame Street and the Muppets Join the Celebration
Characters from Sesame Street and the Muppets are also expected to take part in the show. Their presence reinforces the education-focused message of the event, linking the performance to children’s learning, creativity and opportunity.
Why This Matters for Moroccan Fans
For Moroccan supporters, the 2026 World Cup is already one of the most anticipated tournaments ever. Morocco’s growing football profile, the Atlas Lions’ global fanbase and the country’s deep connection to music and cultural celebration make this halftime show especially relevant for fans following the tournament from Morocco and abroad.
With the final taking place in the United States, Moroccan fans planning to travel can also prepare through our 2026 World Cup guide for Moroccan fans in the USA, including travel, matchday and fan experience information.
A New Era for the FIFA World Cup
The 2026 World Cup will be the first edition with 48 teams and 104 matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Adding a halftime show to the final signals a new entertainment strategy for FIFA, blending elite football with global music and social causes.
With Madonna, Shakira and BTS sharing the stage, the final in New York New Jersey is set to become one of the defining cultural moments of the 2026 tournament.
Key Details
- Event: FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show
- Date: Sunday, July 19, 2026
- Venue: New York New Jersey Stadium
- Headliners: Madonna, Shakira and BTS
- Curator: Chris Martin of Coldplay
- Producer: Global Citizen
- Cause: FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund
- Fundraising goal: USD 100 million
FAQ
Who will perform at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show?
Madonna, Shakira and BTS will co-headline the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show.
When is the 2026 World Cup final halftime show?
The show will take place on Sunday, July 19, 2026, during the FIFA World Cup final.
Where will the final be played?
The final will be played at New York New Jersey Stadium.
What is the purpose of the halftime show?
The show will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to raise USD 100 million for children’s education and football opportunities worldwide.
