Shakira, Madonna, Justin Bieber, and BTS to headline historic first World Cup final halftime show
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The 2026 World Cup final in the US, Canada, and Mexico will feature a halftime show for the first time.
- Performers will include Shakira, Madonna, Justin Bieber, and BTS.
- Shakira will perform her World Cup anthem "Dai Dai" with Burna Boy, while Madonna will promote her new album and Bieber's participation has drawn mixed reactions.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final, scheduled for July 19 in the US, Canada, and Mexico, will break tradition by introducing a halftime musical performance. This marks the first time the tournament's finale will include such a show, which will take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Several globally recognized artists are slated to perform. Shakira, often called the "queen of the World Cups," will be part of the spectacle. She recently released the World Cup anthem "Dai Dai" with Nigerian artist Burna Boy, a fusion of Latin pop, Afrobeats, and funk rhythms. The duo has already performed the song live during the tournament's opening in Mexico City.
Joining Shakira will be pop icon Madonna, who is set to leverage the performance to promote her latest album, "Confessions on a Dance Floor: Part II." The album, a sequel to her 2005 hit, recently debuted at number one on the Billboard charts in America.
Canadian superstar Justin Bieber is also confirmed to perform. His inclusion follows a comeback performance at the Coachella festival that garnered mixed reviews. Bieber reportedly received $10 million for his Coachella appearance, which featured a minimalist stage setup and a setlist of new songs and hits like "Baby." However, some audience members criticized his performance for relying on pre-recorded elements and lacking energy, leading to concerns about his upcoming World Cup show. Despite potential criticism, Bieber expressed his honor at being part of the halftime spectacle, stating, "The World Cup unites the world in a unique way. I am honored to be a part of this halftime spectacle, and even with..."
The World Cup unites the world in a unique way. I am honored to be a part of this halftime spectacle, and even with...
Originally published by Veฤernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.