The FIFA World Cup 2026 final is set to be a spectacle like never before as football fans are in for the first-ever halftime show in the tournament.
For the unversed, FIFA has introduced a Super Bowl-style halftime event that will take place at the break of play. The final, to be held on July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium), will feature music icons from around the world, including BTS, Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber, Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel and the PS22 Chorus. Coldplay frontman Chris Martin will curate the show. Due to the difference in time zones, countries will get to watch it at different hours. Here’s how you can tune in to the show while sitting in India.
Breaking the tradition, the BBC and ITV have opted not to air the halftime performance. The networks will instead focus on highlights and analysis from the opening 45 minutes of the game at MetLife Stadium in New York. But FIFA made arrangements for viewers who wish to watch the show live.
When will FIFA World Cup 2026 air in India?
According to Indian time, the final will be played on Monday, July 20, at 12:30 am IST for the desi viewers. Based on stoppages in the match, the halftime show should start about 45 minutes after the kickoff, which will be around 1:15-1:20 am IST. FIFA said it will extend halftime to include a Super Bowl-style musical performance in the first World Cup final that will feature such a show.
How to watch FIFA World Cup 2026 final live in India?
Viewers can watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 final live coverage in India on the tournament’s official broadcast partners. While the TV telecast is scheduled for Sports18 Network, the show will live stream on JioHotstar. The halftime show will be integrated into the live match broadcast so fans can watch the performances without switching platforms.
What is the duration of the FIFA final halftime show?
The live musical performance of the FIFA final halftime show is confirmed to last 11 minutes. However, according to reports, the total halftime interval will be stretched to approximately 30 to 45 minutes to accommodate the setup, logistics, and standard broadcasting analysis, from the usual 15-minute period.
What to expect during the performance?
For the first time in FIFA history, the 2026 World Cup final will feature a halftime show. Madonna and Shakira will headline the event, with Justin Bieber joining the line-up just before the tournament. The performance will also feature Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel and the PS22 Chorus, with Chris Martin acting as creative curator. The show is produced in partnership with Global Citizen to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which works to increase access to education and football opportunities for children across the world.
FIFA finals to turn a new chapter
FIFA World Cup finals in the past have had pre-match ceremonies, but the 2026 World Cup will feature its own halftime concert, similar to the NFL Super Bowl. Fans are already calling it an entertainment experience that unites the mega sporting event, set to draw millions of viewers around the world.