We’re fast approaching one of the biggest sporting events of the year, the FIFA World Cup 2026. This year, the event is getting a huge upgrade with its first-ever World Cup final halftime show!

On 14th May 2026 (Thursday), FIFA announced that global superstars Shakira, Madonna and BTS (방탄소년단) will headline the first-ever World Cup final halftime show. The event will take place on 19th July 2026 (Sunday) at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. This announcement comes after news that there will be three opening ceremonies for the event. The line-up of performers includes J Balvin, Tyla, Michael Bublé, Katy Perry and BLACKPINK’s Lisa.

Coldplay’s Chris Martin curated the halftime show line-up, while non-profit Global Citizen produced the event. The performance will also benefit the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to raise US$100 million (approximately RM394 million) to expand access to quality education and football for children worldwide. US$1 (approximately RM3.94) from every FIFA World Cup 2026 match ticket sold will be donated to the fund.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino commented about the halftime show through Instagram, saying, ”…This historic show will also shine a light on a greater purpose by supporting the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund and our shared mission to expand access to quality education and football opportunities for children worldwide.” He added, “It will be a celebration of football, unity and shared humanity that will resonate far beyond the final whistle.”

It’s worth noting that football fans have expressed concerns about the halftime show, particularly the duration of the performance. According to the official rules of football, outlined by the International Football Association Board, halftime breaks shouldn’t exceed 15 minutes. However, it’s unclear whether the board will make any rule changes to accommodate the performance.

In related news, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil recently announced that Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) and Unifi TV are the official broadcasters of the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Malaysia. All 104 matches will be broadcast live on Unifi TV, while RTM will air most of the matches either live or on delayed telecasts. Football fans in Malaysia can download the RTM Klik app to watch the matches for free.

With three opening ceremonies and a halftime show, the FIFA World Cup 2026 is gearing up to be the biggest event in the tournament’s history. While we wait for the first match to kick off, check out the official song for this year’s event: “Dai Dai” by Shakira and Burna Boy:

Sources: CNN, Malay Mail