World Cup Final Halftime Show July 19 at MetLife

For the first time ever, the World Cup Final on July 19 will have a halftime show featuring global stars BTS, Madonna, and Shakira. This event aims to raise money for children's education.
By Newsroom | Sports, Entertainment |

New Jersey's MetLife Stadium to Host Inaugural Event

For the first time in its nearly 100-year existence, the FIFA World Cup final will feature a dedicated halftime show. The landmark event is scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. This unprecedented performance aims to merge the worlds of sport, music, and social advocacy on a global stage.

The halftime show will be produced by Global Citizen, with the stated goal of raising support for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which focuses on providing educational opportunities for children in underserved communities.

The lineup features a trio of globally recognized musical acts: K-pop sensation BTS, rock and roll icon Madonna, and Colombian singer-songwriter Shakira. This marks Madonna's debut involvement with the World Cup, while Shakira brings a substantial history with the tournament, including her anthemic song "Waka Waka" and the recently released official World Cup song, "Dai Dai," featuring Nigerian artist Burna Boy. One member of BTS, Jung Kook, previously performed at the 2022 World Cup opening ceremony.

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Global Citizen's Role and Educational Initiatives

Global Citizen's involvement underscores an intention to use the World Cup's immense reach for broader societal aims. Shakira, herself a board member for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, expressed hope that the focus on children's education would "steal the show." This fund has already begun allocating grants to programs aimed at improving access to education and football for children across 10 countries. The advisory board for the fund includes prominent figures such as FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Global Citizen CEO Hugh Evans, actor Hugh Jackman, businesswoman Ivanka Trump, singer The Weeknd, tennis star Serena Williams, and football legend Kaká.

Broader Tournament Performances

Beyond the final's halftime spectacle, the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, will feature multiple opening ceremonies. These preliminary events are set to take place across Mexico City, Toronto, and Los Angeles on June 11 and 12, preceding the tournament's official kick-off. These ceremonies are described as incorporating live performances, visual displays, and narrative elements centered around the World Cup trophy. The integration of major musical talent across various stages of the tournament suggests a deliberate strategy by FIFA to enhance the cultural and entertainment dimensions of the event.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is happening for the first time at the World Cup Final on July 19?
For the first time in its history, the World Cup Final on July 19 will have a special halftime show. This is a new event for the tournament.
Q: Who will perform at the World Cup Final halftime show on July 19?
The halftime show on July 19 at MetLife Stadium will feature famous singers BTS, Madonna, and Shakira. They will perform together.
Q: Why is there a halftime show at the World Cup Final on July 19?
The halftime show on July 19 is to help raise money for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. This fund helps give educational chances to children in areas that need them.
Q: Where will the World Cup Final halftime show be on July 19?
The historic halftime show on July 19 will take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. This is where the final match will be played.
Q: What is the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund?
The FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund is a program that gives grants to help children get education and play football in 10 countries. Shakira is on its board.