First World Cup Halftime Show Sparks Debate, Features Array of Global Music Icons

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final marked a historic occasion for multiple reasons. Argentina stood poised to become the first consecutive champion since Brazil achieved the feat in 1962. This event was also recognized as one of the most expensive sporting spectacles ever and served as the culmination of the most highly attended World Cup in the tournament's history.

Adding to its distinction, the final featured the first-ever halftime show in a World Cup Final, a spectacle curated by Coldplay’s frontman, Chris Martin.

A Star-Studded Debut Performance

Though brief by Super Bowl halftime show standards, the performance was packed with a diverse lineup of talent. The acts included the legendary Madonna, The Muppets, global K-Pop sensation BTS, pop star Justin Bieber, conductor Gustavo Dudamel, and a special appearance by actor Jason Sudeikis in his popular role as Ted Lasso. The show also featured Shakira alongside guest artist Burna Boy, concluding with a heartwarming song performed by a group of children assembled at the center of the field.

Madonna initiated her segment from within the stadium tunnel, gradually moving onto the field to an enthusiastic reception from the crowd. Dudamel then led The Muppets in a rendition of "Seven Nation Army," before BTS took the stage to perform "Dynamite," one of their most well-known tracks. Following this, Ted Lasso made an appearance, introducing Bieber, who delivered a more subdued ballad titled "Everything Hallelujah," with lyrics specially adapted to incorporate references to the "World Cup."

Shakira and Burna Boy electrified the stadium with the official World Cup anthem, "Dai Dai," surrounded by dynamic backup dancers, injecting considerable energy into the proceedings before the show's closing act. The grand finale saw the children, joined by Chris Martin and many of the other performers, singing about "love" directly on the pitch.

Diverse Reactions and Critical Assessment

The inaugural halftime show elicited a range of reactions from viewers and commentators. Many favorably compared it to recent Super Bowl halftime performances, specifically mentioning Bad Bunny's set, noting that the World Cup show possessed more energy and was more audibly clear. However, not all feedback was positive; some critics pointed to the show's overall length, observing that a full 27 minutes elapsed between the conclusion of the first half and the kickoff of the second.

Former English soccer star Wayne Rooney offered a particularly blunt assessment during the BBC broadcast, famously stating he thought the show was "crap."

Despite some questioning the fundamental necessity of a halftime show at a World Cup Final, a prevailing sentiment emerged that the production was generally well-executed, flowed smoothly, and avoided becoming overly prolonged. Interestingly, the actual match play during the final itself, involving Spain and Argentina, was described as slow to develop, with both teams taking time to find their rhythm and struggling to create significant scoring opportunities.

Looking Ahead: A New World Cup Tradition?

Given the overall success and positive reception of the entertainment segment, it appears highly probable that a halftime show will become a permanent fixture and a cherished tradition at future FIFA World Cup Finals.