The 2026 FIFA World Cup is already set to make history on the pitch, but now the sporting event will also be one of the biggest entertainment spectacles ever announced in soccer. Global superstars Madonna, Shakira, and BTS have officially been named co-headliners for the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show.
The groundbreaking performance will take place on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium, which will be temporarily renamed New York New Jersey Stadium during the FIFA World Cup Final due to FIFA stadium sponsorship regulations.
© Global CitizenAccording to the press release shared with our magazine, the lineup was curated by Chris Martin from Coldplay.
A Massive Pop Culture Moment
FIFA's introduction of a Super Bowl-style halftime performance for the World Cup Final marks a major shift in how soccer’s biggest tournament is being presented to worldwide audiences.
Madonna, Shakira, and BTS represent a completely different generation and global fan base. Madonna remains one of the most influential pop icons in music history. BTS continues to dominate international pop culture with one of the largest fan communities in the world. Meanwhile, Shakira’s relationship with FIFA and World Cup music already feels legendary.
For many fans, Shakira’s return feels especially full-circle.
Shakira Is Already Defining the Soundtrack of FIFA 2026
Even before the official tournament kickoff, Shakira has already managed to place the 2026 FIFA World Cup directly at the center of online conversation thanks to her upcoming single “Dai Dai,” created alongside Burna Boy.
© Chris CornejoA teaser clip shared across social media quickly gained traction after Shakira appeared inside Maracanã Stadium while holding the official FIFA World Cup ball.
Her 2010 anthem “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” became one of the most recognizable World Cup songs ever released, transcending the sport entirely and becoming a permanent part of pop culture history.
FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund Takes Center Stage
The halftime show will also serve a much larger purpose beyond entertainment. The event is supporting the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, a major initiative aiming to raise $100 million to expand access to quality education and football opportunities for children worldwide.
So far, the Education Fund has already raised more than $30 million. FIFA also confirmed that $1 from every ticket sold to FIFA World Cup 2026 matches will be donated throughout the tournament to continue building momentum.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Is Already Making History
The tournament itself is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious FIFA World Cups ever staged. FIFA World Cup 2026 officially begins on June 11, 2026, at Estadio Banorte, with reports indicating the opening match could feature the Mexico national football team against the South Africa national football team.
© Getty ImagesFor the opening ceremonies, fans can expect a mix of reggaetón, regional Mexican music, Afrobeats, pop, rock, and Latin fusion. In addition to Shakira’s highly anticipated anthem, watchers and attendees can expect powerhouse performances by artists like J Balvin, Lisa, Katy Perry, Belinda, Los Angeles Azules, and Michael Bublé.
