MADONNA, BIEBER AND BTS PERFORM AT FIRST-EVER WORLD CUP FINAL HALFTIME SHOW

A halftime show featuring Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira and BTS extended the break during the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain on Sunday to 27 minutes, nearly double the 15-minute period permitted under FIFA rules. The performance included a pre-recorded segment from Madonna followed by her emergence from the tunnel alongside Brazilian football legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho. Additional acts included the Muppets performing an orchestral rendition of Seven Nation Army with a reference to the Norwegian Viking Row, BTS performing "Dynamite", and Ted Lasso actors Jason Sudeikis and Brendan Hunt introducing Justin Bieber.

The extended spectacle was organised as FIFA's first-ever halftime show at a World Cup final, held at MetLife Stadium. Shakira and Burna Boy performed their 2026 World Cup anthem "Dai Dai", whilst Coldplay performed with a group of children. The show incorporated cultural montages and callbacks throughout the tournament. Commentary from observers noted that some performances appeared to be lip-synced, and the pitch at MetLife Stadium drew separate criticism from viewers before the show took place.

Reports indicate that fans expressed mixed reactions to the halftime entertainment, with some branding it a "disaster" and others questioning the decision to prioritise the extended spectacle during the final. The 27-minute break significantly exceeded FIFA's standard halftime duration, marking a departure from conventional World Cup final protocol.