The introduction of a half-time show at the 2026 World Cup final has sparked debate, akin to hydration breaks and controversial interactions with FIFA officials. This new feature extends the traditional half-time duration beyond the International Football Association’s 15-minute limit.
Additionally, the concept seems to draw inspiration from the NFL’s Super Bowl, where halftime performances have evolved from simple marching bands to significant entertainment events. Critics argue that this approach reflects an American tendency to impose its culture on the global football stage.
Before the main half-time show, the final was preceded by a closing ceremony that failed to impress, with both the BBC and ITV opting not to broadcast it live.
Viewers who tuned into iPlayer witnessed Post Malone debuting what is likely the first single from his upcoming album, *Chrome Heartbreaker*, returning to his hip-hop roots following a country music phase. He also performed a duet with Swae Lee on their chart-topping hit, *Sunflowers*, alongside a performance by internet personality and wrestler IShowSpeed, who presented his viral anthem, *Champions*, which FIFA had included in its official World Cup album.
The performance was a loud mix of booming drums and autotuned vocals, featuring lyrics that made even the simplest football chants seem sophisticated.
“I take a breath and wait for the ref / This is the World Cup, put your hands in the air.”
Unfortunately, the audience in MetLife Stadium did not respond, resulting in an awkward silence, only to be broken by loud fireworks moments later.
Following this, Jennifer Hudson delivered the *Star-Spangled Banner*, while Robbie Williams, joined by Laura Pausini and Nicole Scherzinger, performed FIFA’s anthem, *Desire*. This ballad first appeared during the draw ceremony in December, but its subsequent obscurity was overshadowed by reports of FIFA creating awards for Donald Trump. Upon its revival, one could only agree that it lacked appeal.
Despite the earlier disappointments, the actual half-time show managed to impress, largely due to its brisk pace and efficient transitions between artists. Madonna took the stage with a rendition of her 2000 hit, *Music*, performed on a Mad Max-style vehicle driven by football legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.
Next, the unmistakable sounds of the White Stripes’ *Seven Nation Army* echoed, seemingly performed by three members of the Muppets’ band, the Electric Mayhem. Although their leader, Dr. Teeth, was absent, perhaps recuperating from the earlier IShowSpeed performance, BTS energized the crowd with *Dynamite*, followed by Shakira and Burna Boy presenting a shortened version of their World Cup hit, *Dai Dai*. Coldplay concluded with *Believe in Love*, accompanied by a children’s choir, a pairing that surprisingly resonated well, despite initial skepticism regarding its sugary premise.
However, one misstep was allowing Justin Bieber to perform a somber acoustic ballad, *Everything Hallelujah*. While it gained popularity after his Coachella appearance, the moment seemed ill-suited for the occasion. In the end, while the half-time show may not have been exhilarating enough to warrant a permanent spot in future World Cup finals, it at least justified its presence this time around. Not everyone shared this view; former footballer Wayne Rooney candidly remarked, “I thought it was crap,” when asked for his thoughts by BBC presenter Gabby Logan.
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