World Cup final halftime break to be longer than usual because of halftime show

The FIFA World Cup final is set to mark a historic shift in its halftime tradition by incorporating a live musical performance, thereby extending the halftime interval beyond its customary length. Typically, the halftime break in FIFA matches lasts approximately 15 minutes, but to accommodate this year’s halftime show, the pause is planned to extend to around 20 minutes, with the possibility of running longer.

This initiative follows a precedent established during last year’s Club World Cup final, where a music performance necessitated a 24-minute halftime break to allow stage setup and dismantling. Unlike last year’s staging, which was positioned within the stands, the upcoming show will unfold directly on the pitch, underscoring its prominence and the technical demands of the production.

The halftime show is curated by Chris Martin, lead vocalist of Coldplay, and is distinguished by an ensemble of internationally acclaimed artists including Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber, and the Korean pop sensation BTS. Alongside these headliners, the performance will feature Gustavo Dudamel, conductor of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and the Public School 22 Chorus from Staten Island, which will collaborate with Martin during the event.

Adding to the spectacle, beloved characters from Sesame Street and The Muppets will appear, enriching the presentation with broader entertainment appeal. The exact lineup remains officially limited to those named by FIFA, although speculation persists regarding other performers potentially joining, linked to recent musical collaborations and performances.

The halftime show carries a philanthropic dimension as well, supporting FIFA’s Global Citizen Education Fund. Founded in 2025, this initiative aims to broaden educational access and foster football participation for children worldwide, aligning the event with a message of global unity and hope.

Broadcast coverage of the match and halftime performance will be provided by Fox, Telemundo, and Peacock, ensuring wide accessibility to audiences across multiple platforms. Kickoff for the final is scheduled at 3 p.m., with the first half lasting 45 minutes plus stoppage and hydration breaks before the extended halftime commences.

The decision to extend the halftime break for a musical event places the World Cup final in closer alignment with other major sporting spectacles, such as the Super Bowl, where halftime shows traditionally last around 15 minutes, and the break can extend to 25 or 30 minutes. This evolution signals FIFA’s ambition to enhance the entertainment value of its flagship event while blending sport with cultural performance.

An advisory board supporting the Global Citizen Education Fund comprises diverse figures including FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Global Citizen CEO Hugh Evans, and notable personalities from the worlds of sports, entertainment, and business, reflecting a broad commitment to the initiative’s goals.

While details about the full scope and duration of the halftime show remain limited, its introduction marks a notable development in World Cup history. By integrating a high-profile musical showcase within its most significant match, FIFA is expanding the event’s global cultural footprint and emphasizing a unifying message through the universal languages of music and football.