The FIFA World Cup final is set to deliver a major entertainment spectacle as global music icons Madonna, Shakira and K-pop supergroup BTS prepare to headline the tournament’s first-ever Super Bowl-style half-time show.
The final, taking place in New Jersey on 19 July, marks a significant shift in how FIFA is blending sport and global entertainment to expand the World Cup’s commercial and cultural appeal.
The star-studded performance is expected to run for around 11 minutes and will be curated by Chris Martin. The event will also support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to raise funds for children’s education worldwide.
Shakira is set to release her new World Cup anthem “Dai Dai” featuring Burna Boy, continuing her long association with football after the success of “Waka Waka” during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Meanwhile, Madonna is preparing for the release of her upcoming album “Confessions II,” while BTS continues its global comeback tour following the group’s military service hiatus.
The inclusion of internationally recognised music acts reflects FIFA’s strategy to turn the World Cup final into a global entertainment event that reaches audiences beyond football fans.