ALAN ROTHENBERG REVEALS FIFA BLOCKED WHITNEY HOUSTON FROM 1994 FINAL

Alan Rothenberg, the man who led the United States' hosting of the 1994 World Cup, has revealed that Fifa blocked plans to have Whitney Houston perform on the pitch during the tournament's final. Rothenberg made the disclosure as the United States prepares to host the World Cup again in 2026. A half-time show for the 2026 final at MetLife Stadium will be curated by Chris Martin, with Madonna and Shakira confirmed to perform. Rothenberg expressed a wry reaction to the news, given his experience three decades ago.

The 1994 World Cup was the previous occasion on which the United States hosted the tournament. Rothenberg led the organising effort for that competition, which took place across multiple American cities. His account confirms that organisers at the time sought to stage a high-profile musical performance at the final but were refused permission by Fifa. The revelation highlights a significant shift in Fifa's approach to the presentation of the tournament over the intervening 32 years.

The 2026 World Cup final is scheduled to take place at MetLife Stadium. The inclusion of a Super Bowl-style half-time show marks a notable departure from previous World Cup final formats. Chris Martin's involvement in curating the performance represents a formal, confirmed part of the event's programme. The confirmed appearances of Madonna and Shakira establish the final as a major entertainment occasion alongside the football itself.