FIFA’s plan to introduce a Super Bowl-style halftime show for the 2026 World Cup final has ignited debate among football fans. Announced by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the move shifts away from tradition, sparking concerns over balancing football’s heritage with efforts to attract wider audiences. For many, it’s a battle for the soul of the game.
The Announcement: A Historic Shift
On March 5, 2025, Infantino announced via Instagram that the World Cup final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium will feature the tournament’s first-ever halftime show, calling it “a historic moment for the FIFA World Cup.” The social media reveal seemed designed to maximize buzz while limiting immediate criticism.
FIFA has enlisted Coldplay’s Chris Martin and Phil Harvey, in collaboration with Global Citizen, to curate the event, aiming to engage a diverse global audience. Beyond the stadium, FIFA plans additional entertainment across New York City, including a ‘Times Square takeover’ during the final weekend—signaling a full-scale dive into entertainment.
While the halftime show sparks debate, fans are far more focused on the action on the pitch and who will lift the trophy on July 19. Spain, France, and Brazil are favorites at 6/1, while England sits just behind at 13/2. Reigning champions Argentina remain in the hunt at 8/1, looking to defend their title on the sport’s biggest stage.
With the tournament looking tight once again, many fans will be placing bets online, with sports betting expert Ciaran McEneaney highlighting the promotions you can grab—including welcome bonuses, deposit match bonuses, odds boosts, parlay boosts, free bets, refund bonuses, and even crypto bonuses. A variety of FIFA World Cup betting markets are on offer, ensuring plenty of match day excitement as well. However, while FIFA is pushing the entertainment angle, plenty of fans feel the focus should be on the game, not a mid-match concert.
Fan Backlash: “They’re Killing the Game”
The announcement has triggered widespread criticism from traditional football supporters. Social media platforms have been flooded with disapproving comments, with many fans expressing sentiments like “Nobody wants this” and “They’re killing the game.” The visceral nature of this reaction underscores just how deeply many supporters cherish football’s relatively untouched traditions.
A primary concern involves the potential extension of halftime beyond the traditional 15-minute break. This could disrupt the match’s rhythm and negatively impact player performance. Many fans have accused FIFA of “Yankifying” football—importing American entertainment elements into a sport with its own distinct traditions and cultural significance. You can almost hear the collective groan from pubs in Manchester to cafés in Madrid as supporters contemplate yet another sacred aspect of their beloved sport being reimagined through a commercial lens.
Cultural Clash: American Entertainment vs. Football Tradition
The proposed halftime show has highlighted fundamental cultural differences between American sports entertainment and global football traditions. While the Super Bowl halftime show has become a cultural phenomenon in the United States—often attracting viewers who tune in specifically for the performances—football’s global appeal has traditionally centered on the sport itself and watching the beautiful game for all its excitement no matter where you are. These contrasting approaches reflect deeper differences in how sports are consumed and celebrated across cultures, with American sports often embracing spectacle while European football tradition emphasizes the purity of the game.
The fear among purists is that such changes could dilute football’s unique identity and cultural heritage. For these fans, the beauty of the World Cup lies in the purity of competition rather than supplementary entertainment. Their loyalty to the sport was forged through decades of unembellished football, where half-time meant tactical discussions over tea or beer, not pyrotechnics and pop stars.
Historical Context: Previous Attempts and Failures
Football has experimented with major musical performances before, often with mixed results. At the 2022 UEFA Champions League final, Camila Cabello’s pre-match show was drowned out by fans singing team anthems.
Similarly, the 2016 Copa América Centenario final featured a 25-minute Shakira halftime show that disrupted the match’s flow. These moments highlight the challenge of forcing entertainment into football’s organic atmosphere, where chants and emotions shape the experience. FIFA’s confidence in this new venture remains surprising given past resistance.
Commercialization vs. Tradition: A Broader Trend
Many critics see the halftime show as part of football’s growing commercialization. From expanded tournaments to mid-season World Cups and packed schedules, these changes often prioritize revenue over the sport’s integrity. Each decision erodes fans’ confidence in their influence, widening the gap between leadership and devoted supporters.
The debate raises a bigger question: Is football a sport with commercial aspects, or an entertainment product that includes sport? This issue fuels nearly every major football controversy, with both sides claiming to protect the game’s true essence.
Potential Benefits: Broadening Appeal
Despite the criticism, FIFA’s innovation has potential benefits. A well-executed halftime show could enhance the experience for casual fans and attract new audiences. It could also highlight the cultural diversity of the host nations—Canada, Mexico, and the USA—blending entertainment with the sport. Drawing in millions of new viewers, especially from less engaged demographics, presents a major opportunity for football’s global growth.
