In a series of big events, the FIFA World Cup 2026 final is all set for a record-breaking makeover, with the tournament introducing a 30-minute half-time show for the very first time in its history. Taking inspiration from the Super Bowl, FIFA has decided to stage a star-studded entertainment spectacle during the interval, bringing added glamour to football's biggest tournament.
Record-breaking half-time show at FIFA World Cup 2026 final
World famous music stars Justin Bieber and Shakira are set to lead the half-time performance. However, BBC and ITV raised their voice against the halftime show, as they will feature the first-half highlights and expert analysis from the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New York.
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However, viewers can watch the highly anticipated performance, as the half-time interval is set to be extended. As per a report by The Mirror, FIFA is set to allow a break of around 30 minutes for the World Cup final, continuing its conventional tradition of extending intervals for major events.
Notably, a similar approach was used during the FIFA Club World Cup final between Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, where the half-time was extended to 25 minutes to make space for the entertainment show. However, FIFA is yet to reveal the exact duration of the interval for this year's summit clash, but report claims it could once again exceed the traditional 15-minute break.
Interestingly, the International Football Association Board, football's law-making body, declined the similar request from South American governing body CONMEBOL to extend the half-time to 25 minutes, expressing concerns over the negative impact on player welfare and safety resulting from a longer period of inactivity.
The entertainment show at this year's summit clash is set to push the half-time interval beyond IFAB's benchmark of 15-minute limit. As expected, the move has not gone down well with England fans, who are focused on the Three Lions' semi final against Argentina and the possibility of reaching their first World Cup final since the 1966 triumph.