Dudamel to Lead Venezuelan, NY Orchestras at World Cup Final Halftime Show

Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel will lead a historic performance during the 2026 FIFA World Cup final halftime show, directing both the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela and the New York Philharmonic. This marks the first time these two renowned ensembles will perform together under his baton on such a significant international platform.

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I am immensely happy to announce that, for the first time in history, I will be conducting both my beloved New York Philharmonic and my brothers and sisters of The Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela in the halftime show of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final.

Dudamel expressed immense happiness and pride in announcing the joint performance, scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New York. He stated that leading his "dear Simón Bolívar" – representing the entire family of Venezuela's El Sistema music program and the nation itself – is a powerful expression of his country's strength and resilience, especially during challenging times for Venezuela.

"Reuniting them for the first time in history alongside the extraordinary New York Philharmonic, as I prepare for this exciting new chapter with them, is a beautiful expression of global unity and love," Dudamel wrote on Instagram. He will share the stage with a lineup of global music stars, including Justin Bieber, Shakira, Madonna, BTS, Burna Boy, the PS22 chorus, and Coldplay, for an eleven-minute spectacle.

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My heart remains with the people of Venezuela in these difficult days, and sharing the stage at this unforgettable moment with my beloved Simón Bolívar, who represent the entire family of El Sistema and all of Venezuela, is a powerful expression of our country's strength and resilience.

The halftime show will also serve to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. This initiative aims to raise $100 million to expand access to quality education and football for children globally. A portion of each World Cup ticket sale will contribute to the fund, which has already secured over $50 million. Dudamel has also been involved in recent initiatives to support earthquake victims in Venezuela and organized a benefit concert for them.

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Reuniting them for the first time in history alongside the extraordinary New York Philharmonic, as I prepare for this exciting new chapter with them, is a beautiful expression of global unity and love.