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Shakira, Madonna and BTS set to perform at historic World Cup halftime show

May 14, 2026, 2:00 AM20
(Update: May 14, 2026, 8:12 AM)
2019 video game
American singer, songwriter, and actress (born 1958)
Colombian singer, songwriter and actress

Shakira, Madonna and BTS set to perform at historic World Cup halftime show

  • FIFA announced the first-ever halftime show for the World Cup final featuring Shakira, Madonna, and BTS.
  • The performances will take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, 2026.
  • This initiative aims to raise funds for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund while enhancing the entertainment experience of the tournament.
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In a groundbreaking event for the FIFA World Cup, FIFA revealed that the halftime show for the final will be headlined by three global music icons—Shakira, Madonna, and BTS. This inaugural performance is set to take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, 2026, marking a significant expansion of the event's entertainment offerings. The World Cup, usually centered around the sporting action, will now also spotlight some of the biggest names in the music industry. The announcement was made through a creative video featuring Coldplay's Chris Martin and beloved characters from The Muppets, indicating a blend of entertainment designed to appeal to a diverse audience, including both soccer and music fans. In terms of background, Shakira has a storied connection with the World Cup, as she has performed the official songs for past tournaments, including the iconic 'Waka Waka (This Time For Africa)' in 2010. For the upcoming tournament, she has collaborated with Burna Boy on the new official song 'Dai Dai.' Madonna's inclusion is particularly exciting, as she is set to release a new album titled 'Confessions II' on July 3, 2026, which is a follow-up to her Grammy-winning work. Additionally, BTS, the globally recognized K-pop group, has recently returned to the stage after a hiatus due to mandatory military service, making them major attractions for the event. As music has become an integral part of major global sporting events, this decision by FIFA to include a halftime show reflects an increasing trend of blending sports and entertainment, aiming to capture the attention of broader audiences. The event is also expected to raise funds for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to provide educational opportunities to children worldwide. Each ticket sold to World Cup matches will contribute to this initiative, highlighting FIFA's commitment to social responsibility alongside entertainment during the tournament. With the World Cup being held across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico starting from June 11, the halftime show represents a significant moment in the tournament's history. The performances are expected to attract millions of viewers worldwide, and the organizers are preparing for the Logistics of hosting such high-profile acts in the context of an athletic competition. The anticipation surrounding the songs, performances, and the overall entertainment package will surely elevate the event, drawing in not just soccer enthusiasts but also fans of each headlining artist. This innovative approach aims to set a precedent for future tournaments, merging sporting triumphs with musical grandeur.

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