Global Citizen has officially confirmed it will produce the first-ever halftime show for a FIFA World Cup final as part of its partnership with FIFA. The historic show is scheduled for July 19, 2026, during the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium.
Madonna, Shakira, and BTS are set to headline the first-ever FIFA World Cup final halftime show at MetLife Stadium on July 19, marking a major entertainment milestone for the tournament. The idea has been in motion since 2024, when Global Citizen announced its four-year partnership with FIFA during its annual festival in New York.
Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, a longtime Global Citizen collaborator, personally helped curate the lineup for this year’s show. The announcement was revealed with the help of Sesame Street characters, adding a playful touch to the campaign. Given Martin’s history of surprise live appearances, fans are already speculating that he could join the performers on stage during the event.
In a joint statement, Madonna, Shakira, and BTS highlighted the importance of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative focused on expanding access to quality education and football opportunities for children worldwide. Madonna emphasized the role education plays in creating opportunities for young people, while Shakira reflected on how her passions for music and building schools have finally come together on one global platform.
BTS also described music as a powerful force for hope and unity, saying they were excited to use the World Cup stage to support children’s education. FIFA has already been leaning further into large-scale entertainment for the 2026 tournament, signaling a shift toward a more Super Bowl-inspired presentation. The competition’s opening ceremony is also expected to feature major international acts including Katy Perry, Future, Anitta, and Lisa.
Meanwhile, Shakira recently released “Dai Dai,” an official World Cup anthem that adds to her growing list of major releases in recent years.
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