Soccer fans were already talking about the 2026 FIFA World Cup final before a ball was even kicked. But this time, the discussion was not about Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, or the United States team. Instead, fans exploded online after FIFA confirmed that Madonna, Shakira, and BTS will headline the first-ever World Cup final halftime show at MetLife Stadium on July 19, 2026. The announcement came Wednesday night, just weeks before the tournament begins across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
FIFA President Promised a 'Fantastic' Show
FIFA president Gianni Infantino had earlier promised supporters that the show would be “fantastic,” but many soccer fans clearly did not agree. Social media quickly filled with angry reactions, with several fans questioning why performers from the three host nations were not chosen instead.
One fan wrote, “Could they not have got 3 current stars from the USA, Mexico & Canada? Would have made a lot more sense!” Another said, “The worst lineup in the history of FIFA. You can’t change my mind.” Others were upset that soccer was adopting a Super Bowl-style entertainment break. One supporter commented, “Leave that nonsense to Super Bowl, soccer doesn’t need cheerleaders.”
Fan Reactions Divided Over Artists
Some reactions focused directly on the artists themselves. Madonna, who is now 67 years old, faced criticism from fans who felt FIFA should have picked younger performers. One user wrote, “Madonna’s a bit past it isn’t she? Who even wants a half time show anyway?” Another fan targeted BTS and posted, “Them trying to sneak in BTS with these talented ppl like we would notice.”
Meanwhile, Shakira’s inclusion also sparked debate because she has already been heavily linked with soccer events in the past. One fan reacted by saying, “Shakira again? She did this with JLo at the Super Bowl…”
FIFA Committed to the Event Despite Criticism
Despite the criticism, FIFA appears fully committed to the event. According to FIFA, the halftime show will help raise money for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which supports children’s education and access to soccer around the world. Chris Martin helped FIFA choose the performers. In the official announcement video, Martin said, “This show is more about we than me. It’s about togetherness.”
The lineup also brings huge global star power. Madonna has won seven Grammy Awards and is preparing to release her new album “Confessions II” in July. Shakira recently released the official World Cup song “Dai Dai” with Burna Boy and famously performed around the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. BTS made history in 2020 as the first K-pop group ever nominated for a Grammy Award.
First Halftime Show in World Cup Final History
This will be the first halftime show in World Cup final history. The last time the tournament was hosted in the United States in 1994, opening and closing ceremonies featured stars like Diana Ross, Whitney Houston, Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo, and Jose Carreras instead of a mid-game concert.
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About the Author
Sehjal Gupta is a sports journalist covering US and international sports, with a specialization in the NFL. She has been writing about sports since 2025, reporting on leagues, tournaments, and athletes who shape the game. A Master’s in Management adds depth to her analysis, while her love for Hollywood movies and pop culture sparks her storytelling voice, a flair that also shapes her entertainment writing, giving it the same energy and creativity she brings to sports.
