The 2026 FIFA World Cup final halftime show made history as the first of its kind, with a star-studded lineup performing at New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, 2026. The event took place during the match between Spain and Argentina, which was tied 0-0 at halftime.
Global stars headline historic World Cup halftime show
FIFA assembled a global roster of performers, including Colombian singer Shakira, Nigerian artist Burna Boy, and actor Jason Sudeikis, alongside BTS members RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook. The show also featured Madonna, Coldplay, and the Muppets, including Kermit and Miss Piggy.
Other highlights included the Ghetto Kids dance troupe from Uganda, who performed with Shakira, and children from Staten Island’s PS22 Chorus, who sang with Chris Martin. The 11-minute spectacle emphasized themes of unity and togetherness, with Madonna opening the show in a roller rink setup, accompanied by football legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.
Charity and cultural moments in the spotlight
The halftime show supported the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, aiming to raise $100 million for children’s education and soccer access worldwide. Performances also referenced viral World Cup moments, such as the Norwegian row and Congolese superfan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga’s tribute to Patrice Lumumba.
Additional appearances included Ted Lasso actors Jason Sudeikis and Brendan Hunt, who introduced Justin Bieber, and conductor Gustavo Dudamel, whose orchestra played the White Stripes’ "Seven Nation Army" alongside Muppets Animal, Janice, and Floyd Pepper. The event’s messaging of global unity contrasted with the presence of former U.S. President Donald Trump and Melania Trump in the audience.
