For the first time in FIFA World Cup history, the tournament final will include a halftime performance inspired by the Super Bowl format, with Madonna, BTS and Shakira set to headline the event on July 19 at MetLife Stadium – temporarily renamed New York New Jersey Stadium for the event.
The show, organized by Global Citizen and curated by Chris Martin, aims to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, a campaign seeking to raise $100 million to improve access to education and soccer programs for children worldwide. FIFA also confirmed that $1 from every ticket sold during the tournament will go toward the initiative.
The show announcement arrived through a social media video featuring Martin alongside characters from Sesame Street, including Elmo, Cookie Monster and other Muppets, with a surprise appearance from BTS members.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino describes the event as “a singular moment at the intersection of sport, culture and purpose,” while adding, “Every child should have the opportunity to dream, and together we can help make that possible.”
Both Madonna and Shakira are already familiar with massive halftime audiences after previously performing at the Super Bowl, while BTS has longstanding FIFA ties through member Jungkook, who appeared at the 2022 World Cup opening ceremony. BTS also collaborated with Coldplay on the hit single “My Universe.”
FIFA recently revealed that J Balvin will headline the opening ceremony in Mexico City alongside performers including Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, Tyla, Katy Perry, Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé and LISA.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins June 11 across the United States, Canada and Mexico, with the championship match scheduled for a 3 p.m. ET kickoff. Broadcast details for the halftime show have not yet been announced.
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