Shakira led the emotional halftime show finale with a call for 'Love'

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina was not only historic on the field but also marked a new era for the tournament with its first large-format halftime show. Held at MetLife Stadium near New York, the event transformed the venue into a massive stage for a spectacle blending music, dance, and a message of unity.

The show kicked off with Madonna, joined by Brazilian legends Ronaldinho and Ronaldo. Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel then led an orchestra, merging classical music with the sporting event's energy. South Korean group BTS performed some of their biggest hits, followed by Canadian artist Justin Bieber, who kept the crowd's excitement high.

A highly anticipated moment featured Colombian superstar Shakira performing her collaboration "Dai Dai" with Nigerian singer Burna Boy. They were accompanied by Ugandan dancers Ghetto Kids and Eseniia Mikheeva, delivering a vibrant performance filled with color and choreography.

The show concluded on an emotional note, with dozens of children joining the artists on stage for a song promoting love and hope, culminating in a collective call for "Love." The production also included iconic characters like Peggy and Kermit the Frog, adding a family-friendly and festive touch to the finale. FIFA had promised an unprecedented show, styled after the Super Bowl, describing it as "the biggest stage in the world" for a World Cup that featured 48 teams across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The pre-game festivities also included appearances by actor Tom Cruise, singers Robbie Williams and Laura Pausini, content creator IShowSpeed, and rapper Post Malone. FIFA's strategy to integrate world-class musical performances into the final aims to position the match as a global entertainment event that appeals to multiple generations and goes beyond the sport itself.