ITV and BBC are set to air the entirety of Fifa’s contentious half-time show during the World Cup final at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday. However, the exact duration of the performance remains uncertain for the broadcasters.
Concerns regarding the length of the half-time entertainment have been highlighted, particularly since the show, curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, features prominent artists including Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira, and K-pop group BTS. It is anticipated that the interval will span between 25 and 30 minutes.
Despite these uncertainties, both UK networks have opted to present the show in its entirety. They believe that the time allocated to set up and dismantle the stage will allow for adequate analysis of the match.
In a previous instance, Fifa hosted a half-time show at the Club World Cup final in the same venue, resulting in a total break of 24 minutes. However, this earlier show occurred in the stands, and the additional logistics of a stage setup on the pitch may lead to a longer delay this time. The performance is expected to last around 11 minutes.
The International Football Association Board’s regulations stipulate that players are entitled to a half-time interval not exceeding 15 minutes, which can only be extended with the referee’s consent. Consequently, Fifa may be in violation of this rule, although it has reportedly faced no opposition from Ifab officials.
Fifa has significantly ramped up pre-match entertainment for this World Cup, reflecting the expectations of the American audience. The inaugural matches in the host nations featured extensive musical opening ceremonies, with Shakira and Burna Boy performing before Mexico’s game against South Africa in Mexico City.
In addition, Alanis Morissette and Michael Bublé performed in Toronto before Canada faced Bosnia and Herzegovina, while Katy Perry headlined the show prior to the USA’s opening match against Paraguay.
Fifa’s president, Gianni Infantino, has labeled the half-time event as a “players are entitled to an interval at half‑time, not exceeding 15 minutes, and it may be altered only with the referee’s permission” aimed at “celebrate football, music and our shared values, ensuring a legacy that transcends the final whistle”
Additionally, Fifa plans to hold a closing ceremony 90 minutes before the final kick-off, featuring performances by Robbie Williams and Jennifer Hudson.
