If there’s one thing America does well, it’s spectacle. And when the world’s biggest football tournament comes to US soil this summer, the hosts are pulling out all the stops with a star-studded half-time show that would make the Super Bowl blush.
Justin Bieber has officially signed on to headline the historic event on 19 July at the New York New Jersey Stadium, joining pop royalty Madonna, Colombian superstar Shakira, and South Korean sensation BTS in what promises to be one of the most-watched musical performances in history.
An eclectic mix of global talent
The Canadian singer will share the stage with an eclectic mix of talent curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, who serves as international curator of the Global Citizen Festival. The lineup also includes Nigerian Afrobeats star Burna Boy, conductor Gustavo Dudamel, the PS22 Chorus, and in a quirky twist that screams pure entertainment, appearances from The Muppets’ Kermit and Miss Piggy.
“The Fifa World Cup brings the world together in a way nothing else can,” Bieber said. “I’m grateful to be part of this half-time show, and even more grateful knowing it’s already helping expand access to education for children around the world.”
Music with a mission
The performances aren’t just about entertainment. Fifa and Global Citizen have partnered to raise $100 million for the Fifa Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to improve access to education and football for children worldwide.
Burna Boy highlighted the significance of representing Africa on such a massive platform. “The Fifa World Cup is one of the few moments that truly brings the entire world together,” he said. “To represent Africa on the first-ever Fifa World Cup final half-time show is a privilege and a responsibility that I don’t take lightly.”
Fifa president Gianni Infantino praised the initiative, stating that education remains a global priority. “We are proud to have Justin Bieber joining Madonna, Shakira and BTS to co-headline the Fifa World Cup 2026 final half-time show in support of the Fifa Global Citizen Education Fund,” he said.
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A historic first for football’s biggest stage
This marks the first time the World Cup final will feature a mid-match musical performance, borrowing a page from the American Super Bowl playbook. With the tournament being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, organisers are clearly embracing the American philosophy of delivering a show that’s bigger, better and more spectacular than anything seen before.
The final takes place at the 82 500-capacity MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, bringing together sport, music and charitable purpose in true American style.
