Football history is about to meet musical mythology on the world’s biggest stage. Forget what you knew about traditional closing ceremonies; the FIFA World Cup 2026 is officially adopting the American Super Bowl model, introducing a Halftime Show designed to break the internet, curated by none other than Coldplay’s Chris Martin.
Madonna, Shakira, and BTS to Ignite World Cup 2026 Final
The wait is over. On Sunday, July 19, the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey will become the epicenter of global culture. Madonna, Shakira, and BTS have been confirmed as the headliners for the first-ever official Halftime Show during a World Cup Final. The news was revealed by Chris Martin—in a brilliantly creative video featuring the Muppets—who will serve as the lead curator for the spectacle.
The timing is impeccable for these global icons. The “Queen of Pop” is set to release the highly anticipated Confessions II on July 3, while BTS continues their triumphant return following the March release of Arirang. Meanwhile, Shakira cements her status as the ultimate football muse with the release of the official World Cup anthem, “Dai Dai,” which drops today.
Beyond the glitz, the event carries a powerful humanitarian mission: one dollar from every ticket sold will be donated to the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, aiming to raise $100 million to expand access to quality education and football for children worldwide.
| Event Stage | Headliners & Key Details |
|---|---|
| The Grand Final Halftime Show | Madonna, Shakira, BTS Curated by Chris Martin (Coldplay) |
| Mexico Opening (June 11) | Maná, J Balvin, Belinda, Alejandro Fernández, Tyla |
| Canada Opener (June 12) | Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé, Alessia Cara, Jessie Reyez |
| USA Opener (June 13) | Katy Perry, Future, Lisa (Blackpink), Anitta, Rema |
| Charity Initiative | $1 per ticket to FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund |