The Cure's Robert Smith slams FIFA's World Cup final halftime show plan

Robert Smith, the iconic frontman of The Cure, has voiced strong opposition to FIFA's plan for a halftime show at the 2026 World Cup final. The musician took to social media to express his dismay, labeling the initiative a "terrible idea" and criticizing its similarity to Super Bowl entertainment.

Smith's initial reaction, a stark "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH," was posted in response to FIFA President Gianni Infantino's description of the event as "innovative." He later clarified that his criticism was not directed at the performers themselves but at the concept of incorporating such a spectacle into a World Cup final. "The point is not really who organizes or who performs, but the terrible idea of having a halftime show at a soccer World Cup final," Smith explained.

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For those who still don't quite understand: the point is not really who organizes or who performs, but the terrible idea of having a halftime show at a soccer World Cup final. If you understand my 'Aaaaagh!' a little better now.

The British musician also expressed his disapproval of U.S. President Donald Trump attending the final alongside Infantino to present the trophy. Smith sarcastically remarked that he lacked enough "A"s to convey the appropriate level of "ARGH" for this particular detail. He accompanied his posts with hashtags such as "bread and circuses," "fuck fifa," and "go to hell."

The halftime show, reportedly organized by Coldplay's Chris Martin, is a first for the World Cup since its inception in 1930. While some reports suggested the show could last up to 25 minutes, event producers have confirmed a musical performance of approximately 11 minutes to adhere to the 15-minute maximum break time stipulated for players.

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Infantosser has said that he and the President of the United States, Trumpton, will present the trophy together. Unfortunately, I no longer have enough A's left to express the 'ARGH' that should come after.