The 2026 World Cup final, scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, will mark a final break with soccer tradition to embrace the American model of entertainment.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced that for the first time in history, the half-time break will last 25 minutes.
It will not be a simple technical break, but a colossal halftime show along the lines of the Super Bowl with the famous band "Coldplay" as the main performer.
This transformation will extend the halftime break from the standard 15 minutes to approximately 25, allowing for a great stage and cast to perform.
While Infantino is keeping the full list of performers under wraps, it has been confirmed that Coldplay's Chris Martin and Phil Harvey will serve as artistic directors.
Infantino's decision reflects his desire to transform the world's most watched sporting event into a 360-degree spectacle, capable of attracting not only football purists but also a diverse audience.
"For the first time, we will have a show during the first half of the final," the FIFA president proudly explained, according to abcnews.
The announcement has sparked criticism among fans, particularly regarding the extension of the first half, with fears that such an extended break could disrupt the competitive pace of the match and disrupt players' concentration at a crucial moment like a World Cup final.
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