BTS, Shakira, and Madonna to Headline First-Ever FIFA World Cup Halftime Show

For the first time in its nearly century-long history, the FIFA World Cup will feature a halftime show during the 2026 Final Match. Nonprofit organization Global Citizen announced that K-pop supergroup BTS, Colombian star Shakira, and pop icon Madonna will headline the performance. The event aims to raise funds for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, with a goal of securing $100 million to expand access to education and soccer for children worldwide. Coldplay’s Chris Martin helped promote the initiative by explaining the concept of a halftime show in a video featuring Sesame Street characters. While the final match showcases these global stars, host nations Mexico, the United States, and Canada will stage their own opening ceremonies with local artists. This historic addition follows a near-miss in 1994 when Whitney Houston was barred from performing at halftime due to player warm-up concerns. The 2026 show is anticipated to draw massive viewership, potentially surpassing recent Super Bowl records, marking a significant cultural expansion for the world’s most-watched sporting event.