The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is set to make entertainment history with its first-ever halftime show, and the lineup has already sparked massive global excitement. FIFA has confirmed that Madonna, Shakira, and BTS will headline the special performance during the final match on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The event will mark a major shift in World Cup presentation, bringing a Super Bowl-style halftime spectacle to football’s biggest stage for the very first time.
FIFA World Cup to feature BTS, Shakira and Madonna in halftime show
The halftime show is being curated by Chris Martin in partnership with Global Citizen. FIFA President Gianni Infantino had previously announced plans to introduce a large-scale halftime concert for the World Cup final, describing it as a historic moment for global sport and entertainment. The production is expected to combine music, visual storytelling, and international cultural elements, transforming the final into a worldwide entertainment event beyond football.
The choice of performers reflects FIFA’s attempt to appeal to audiences across generations and regions. Madonna brings decades of global pop influence, while Shakira continues her strong connection with football culture after iconic World Cup songs like “Waka Waka.” Meanwhile, BTS adds enormous international star power and represents the growing impact of K-pop on major global events.
Madonna, Shakira and BTS will co-headline the first-ever FIFA World Cup™ Final Halftime Show at the New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19.
Curated by Coldplay`s Chris Martin and produced by Global Citizen, the show will raise funds for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund,… pic.twitter.com/H2c2mc9q0b
— Coldplay (@coldplay) May 14, 2026
For BTS, the performance will become another major FIFA milestone following Jungkook’s widely discussed appearance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony in Qatar. The group recently reunited after completing mandatory military service in South Korea and has resumed music and touring activities. Reports suggest the World Cup halftime show could become one of BTS’ biggest global performances since their reunion.
Shakira’s involvement has also generated strong reactions online, especially because of her long association with football tournaments. The singer recently teased a new World Cup-related song titled “Dai Dai,” reportedly produced alongside Nigerian artist Burna Boy. Fans are speculating that the track may feature during the halftime performance.
Netizens react to the lineup
Social media reactions to the lineup have been mixed but highly energetic. While many fans called the combination of Madonna, Shakira, and BTS a dream collaboration, others debated whether football needs halftime entertainment similar to the Super Bowl format. Discussions across online communities show how significant the announcement has become in both sports and music circles.
