FIFA’s Bold Move: A Star-Studded Half-Time Show
FIFA has a long-standing tradition of adding grand spectacles to its events, but the latest decision to introduce an American-style, star-studded half-time show for the 2026 World Cup final has sparked a significant amount of controversy. For many football purists, this move is a step too far, an unnecessary intrusion into what is arguably the most sacred and revered match in the world of soccer. The World Cup final is a pinnacle moment in the sport, watched by billions of people worldwide, where history is written and legends are made. The idea that FIFA now wants to shoehorn a Hollywood-style entertainment break into what should be an intense and uninterrupted battle for glory feels both unnecessary and out of place. football has always had its own unique traditions and rituals, and many fans fear that this move could dilute the essence of the game.
The Super Bowl Influence
For others, however, this is seen as a modern evolution, bringing football in line with the commercial juggernaut that is the Super Bowl. The Super Bowl’s half-time show is a global event in itself, attracting more TV viewers than the game itself, with performances by pop royalty like Beyoncé, Rihanna, Madonna, Prince, Michael Jackson, and Lady Gaga. Coldplay, a band known for their chart-topping hits and stadium-filling concerts, has been tasked by FIFA president Gianni Infantino to curate the entertainment for the half-time break during the 2026 World Cup final. The hope is that this will enhance the fan experience and bring additional excitement to the event. However, the memory of Janet Jackson’s infamous "wardrobe malfunction" during the 2004 Super Bowl, where Justin Timberlake inadvertently revealed more than was intended, serves as a cautionary tale. FIFA will likely be extremely cautious to avoid any such incidents, ensuring that the show remains family-friendly and focused on entertainment rather than controversy.
The Impact on the Game
Traditionally, half-time in football is a 15-minute tactical reset. Players regroup, managers deliver crucial team talks, and fans either hold their breath or take a moment to recover from the first-half drama—or at least get a quick beer. The introduction of a lengthy half-time show raises several concerns. How will players feel about potentially waiting longer to restart the biggest game of their careers? Will the spectacle detract from the sporting drama, and do fans, who are emotionally invested in the match, want a pop concert when they are dissecting their team’s performance? The Bournemouth vs Wolves FA Cup match last weekend, which experienced an eight-minute VAR delay, highlights the potential issues. If a lengthy half-time show is added to the mix, supporters might find themselves missing crucial moments of the game or having to rush to avoid the last bus home. Moreover, the added pressure on players to perform under these conditions could affect their performance in the second half.
The Financial Aspect
The financial implications of this move are also significant. A glance at ticket prices for the World Cup final shows that even the cheapest seats start at £3,000 each, indicating that the supporters will be the ones footing the bill for the half-time entertainment. While the Super Bowl half-time show is a lucrative commercial opportunity, the World Cup final is already a premium event. FIFA’s decision to introduce this show seems to be driven by a desire to capitalize on new commercial opportunities, but it raises questions about whether the added cost and complexity are justified. The World Cup is a celebration of football, and many fans argue that the true stars of the event are the players on the pitch, not the celebrities on a stage.
Commercialization and Tradition
The 2026 World Cup is hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, and FIFA’s decision to introduce a showbiz-style interval is a clear nod to American sports culture. The Super Bowl half-time show is renowned for its A-list performers, jaw-dropping production, and millions of viewers who tune in just for the spectacle. However, football is not American football. The World Cup doesn’t need a marketing boost; it is already one of the most popular and widely followed sporting events in the world. This move is part of a broader trend in which football is increasingly being shaped by commercial interests. Expanded tournaments, mid-season World Cups, and club competitions that stretch calendars to their breaking point are all driven by the pursuit of revenue rather than the rhythm of the game. FIFA’s argument that this move will "enhance the fan experience" seems to be more about selling an already premium product to a wider audience, potentially at the expense of the sport’s traditions.
Preserving the Essence of Football
The World Cup final is already the Greatest Show on Earth. It doesn’t need a half-time act to prove it. Many fans fondly recall simpler times when they huddled around a cup of Bovril while reading the club programme at half-time, the crackly sounds of Shakin’ Stevens or Sade playing over the tinny PA system. These moments, while humble, are part of football’s rich tapestry and history. The fear is that once this door is opened, football’s traditions will continue to erode in the name of spectacle. Do we want DJs at full-time, fireworks before penalties, or commercial breaks for VAR decisions? The essence of football lies in its simplicity and the raw excitement of the game itself. FIFA’s decision to introduce a star-studded half-time show may be well-intentioned, but it risks overshadowing the real stars of the sport—the players who have dedicated their lives to reaching the pinnacle of their careers.
