New York(GNP): The FIFA World Cup 2026 Final became a historic event not only because of Spain’s victory over Argentina but also because football history was made off the pitch.
For the first time in the tournament’s 96-year history, FIFA introduced a World Cup Final Halftime Show, that bring together some of the world’s biggest music stars in a spectacular celebration watched by millions across the globe.
The event was curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin and produced by Global Citizen in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.
One of the biggest highlights of the evening was the performance by global K-pop sensation BTS, who once again demonstrated why they remain one of the world’s most influential music groups.
Fresh from the European leg of their ARIRANG World Tour, RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook performed their worldwide hit “Dynamite” with outstanding energy and precision.
The group appeared in specially designed red World Cup inspired outfits featuring their names and the number seven, symbolizing the seven members of BTS.
Despite arriving in New York shortly before the event after performing in Paris, BTS delivered an energetic performance that received loud applause from fans inside the stadium and millions watching around the world. The halftime show featured an impressive lineup of international artists.
Justin Bieber performed an emotional acoustic version of “Everything Hallelujah,” while Madonna opened the show with a new version of her classic hit “Music.”
Colombian superstar Shakira joined Nigerian artist Burna Boy to perform the official FIFA World Cup 2026 anthem, “Dai Dai,” bringing vibrant energy and cultural diversity to the global stage.
Music lovers also witnessed a unique orchestral performance led by internationally acclaimed Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel. He conducted musicians from the New York Philharmonic alongside Venezuela’s Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra, creating a powerful musical moment that reflected unity through art and culture.
Their performance was joined by special appearances from the Muppets’ Electric Mayhem and legendary violinist Bijan Mortazavi, making the halftime show unlike anything previously seen at a FIFA World Cup.
The celebration continued with performances from the PS22 Chorus, featuring Coldplay, as well as appearances by the Ghetto Kids, Emmanuel Kelly, and beloved Muppet characters including Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy.
Football legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho also appeared during the show, while actors Jason Sudeikis and Brendan Hunt entertained fans in their famous “Ted Lasso” roles.
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Unlike the traditional 15-minute halftime break, FIFA extended the interval to allow the historic musical event to take place, creating an unforgettable blend of sport, entertainment and global culture.
The show also helped raise awareness and financial support for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative aiming to expand access to education and football opportunities for children worldwide. Organizers announced that the campaign has already raised more than US$60 million, with one dollar from every World Cup ticket contributing to the fund.
BTS’s participation carried particular significance because of the group’s long standing connection with FIFA. In 2022, Jung Kook became the first South Korean artist to perform at a FIFA World Cup opening ceremony with the official song “Dreamers.”
BTS also partnered with Hyundai during the Qatar World Cup campaign through the “Goal of the Century” initiative. Their appearance at the first ever World Cup Final Halftime Show further strengthened their place in football and music history. Beyond the performances, the event demonstrated how football has become more than a sporting competition.
It has evolved into a global celebration where music, culture and social causes come together on one stage. The halftime show attracted worldwide attention and introduced a new tradition that may shape future FIFA tournaments.
As Spain celebrated its first FIFA World Cup title since 2010, fans also witnessed an unforgettable entertainment spectacle that united different cultures, languages and generations.
The combination of football’s biggest final with performances from BTS, Justin Bieber, Madonna, Shakira, Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel and many other artists made the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final one of the most memorable events in the history of international sport.
