New Delhi: The 2026 FIFA World Cup has unveiled the star-studded line-up of international artists who are set to perform during its first-ever musical show, Super Bowl-style half-time at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19. The lineup includes K-pop sensation BTS, music icons Shakira, Madonna and other renowned faces.
FIFA 2026: Super Bowl-style musical show
In its first-ever musical show, the 48-team FIFA World Cup will kick off on June 11 and is touted as the largest edition in the tournament’s history. It is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In March last year, the FIFA president, Gianni Infantino had first announced plans for a special half-time show, calling it a historic addition to football’s biggest spectacle.
Additionally, Coldplay’s frontman Chris Martin will be curating the production, which has already sparked discussions about how to manage the traditional 15-minute interval during the final. However, the halftime show is not all about entertainment. FIFA confirmed that the event will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative aimed at raising USD 100 million to improve access to quality education and football opportunities across the globe.
As part of the campaign, USD 1 from every ticket sold for FIFA World Cup 2026 matches will be donated directly to the fund. The move is expected to combine the global reach of football and music to support children’s education and development worldwide.
The performer BTS called it a “great honour to stand on such a meaningful stage”. In a statement, the K-pop band expressed, “It is a great honour to stand on such a meaningful stage where the whole world comes together. We believe music is a universal language that conveys hope and unity. Being able to share that message with global viewers through this World Cup, and contributing to the expansion of educational opportunities for children, makes this even more significant.”
The BTS performance at the halftime show of FIFA is also a major milestone for the band as the group recently reunited after completing mandatory military service in South Korea.