For the first time ever, the FIFA World Cup final will feature a Super Bowl-style half-time show, with Coldplay playing a pivotal role in curating the lineup. The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is set to conclude with the final on July 19, 2026, at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced that Coldplay’s lead singer Chris Martin and band manager Phil Harvey will assist in selecting a "list of artists" to grace the stage during the 15-minute break in play. Infantino took to Instagram to confirm that this innovative addition would usher in a historic moment for the FIFA World Cup.
Traditionally, major sporting events like the Champions League final incorporate pre-match entertainment, but this will be the first instance of a scheduled half-time show at a World Cup. In contrast to the NFL, where the regular season's half-time lasts about 15 minutes, the Super Bowl halftime is extended to around 30 minutes to accommodate intricate performances.
Coldplay's involvement in the event follows their notable performance during the 2016 Super Bowl, where they shared the stage with stars like Beyoncé and Bruno Mars. Super Bowl half-time shows have drawn significant audiences, with Kendrick Lamar recently attracting a staggering 133.5 million viewers in the U.S., surpassing records previously held by iconic artists like Michael Jackson.
With visionary plans for the 2026 final, Coldplay's collaboration is set to enhance the excitement and entertainment surrounding the World Cup, ensuring it becomes one of the most memorable sports events in history. As preparations move forward, fans and music enthusiasts alike eagerly await news of the artists who will participate in this groundbreaking spectacle.
