Summary: The 2026 FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey will make history with a Super Bowl-style halftime show, confirmed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Coldplay’s Chris Martin and Phil Harvey will select the performing artists.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final, set to take place in New Jersey, will make history by featuring a Super Bowl-style halftime show, FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced on Wednesday.
A Historic First for the FIFA World Cup
Infantino shared the groundbreaking news via Instagram, stating:
“I can confirm the first-ever halftime show at a FIFA World Cup final in New York/New Jersey. This will be a historic moment for the FIFA World Cup and a show befitting the biggest sporting event in the world.”
The show will be curated by Coldplay band members Chris Martin and Phil Harvey, who will determine the lineup of artists set to perform.
FIFA’s Vision: Bringing Entertainment to Football
The decision was revealed during a meeting with FIFA’s commercial and media partners in Dallas, ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 tournament. The event will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
This move draws inspiration from last year’s Copa América final in Miami, where Shakira delivered a halftime performance at Hard Rock Stadium.
What to Expect from the 2026 Halftime Show?
While FIFA has yet to announce specific details regarding the duration, format, or featured artists, the introduction of a music and entertainment spectacle into the World Cup final marks a major shift in the tournament’s traditions.
FIFA’s Grand Plans for New York Takeover
Infantino also confirmed that FIFA will “take over” New York’s Times Square during the final weekend of the tournament, creating an immersive football festival for fans.
With this historic blend of sports and entertainment, the 2026 FIFA World Cup aims to set new benchmarks for global sporting events.