ITV and the BBC have committed to broadcasting the full half-time show during Sunday’s World Cup final at the New York New Jersey Stadium, despite ongoing concerns regarding the duration of the event.
ITV and the BBC Plan for Extended Half-Time Logistics
Broadcasting Logistics and Performance Duration
UK rights holders ITV and the BBC have decided to air the entire half-time spectacle, even as they remain in the dark regarding the precise length of the break. While the BBC reports that the interval is expected to last between 20 and 25 minutes, broadcasters are planning for a window of 25 to 30 minutes to account for the physical requirements of setting up and removing the stage from the pitch. These broadcasters anticipate that the time taken for stage logistics will provide them with enough space to also analyze the game.
The performance itself is projected to last approximately 11 minutes. It features a high-profile lineup including Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber, and the K-pop boyband BTS. According to the BBC, one scheduling option currently under consideration is to hold the standard 15-minute half-time break followed by the 11-minute show. The full lineup for the show also includes Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, and the PS22 Chorus featuring Coldplay.
Ifab Laws and Fifa’s Previous Venue Precedents
Regulatory Framework and Ifab Laws
The extended interval faces potential friction with the established laws of the game. The International Football Association Board (Ifab) stipulates that players are entitled to an interval at half‑time, not exceeding 15 minutes, and it may be altered only with the referee’s permission. While Fifa’s plans appear to deviate from this limit, there is no indication that the organization has received any pushback from officials at Ifab.
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Fifa has previously utilized longer half-time breaks at the same venue. During last year’s Club World Cup final, also held in New Jersey, the interval lasted a total of 24 minutes to accommodate a performance featuring Coldplay, J Balvin, Doja Cat, Tems, and Emmanuel Kelly. Broadcasters anticipate that the current requirements for pitch-side stage management may result in a similar or longer delay this Sunday.
Gianni Infantino Champions Entertainment for the American Market
Fifa’s Entertainment Strategy
The expanded halftime show is part of a broader push by Fifa to align with expectations for the American market. Fifa President Gianni Infantino has championed the inclusion of these performances, describing the half-time show as a “groundbreaking spectacle” that will “celebrate football, music and our shared values, ensuring a legacy that transcends the final whistle.”
This follows our earlier report, New Zealand vs Belgium: FIFA World Cup 2026 Prediction, Line-ups, Kick-off Time & How to Watch.
This tournament has seen a significant increase in pre-match entertainment. The first matches in each host country featured lengthy musical opening ceremonies. These included performances by Shakira and Burna Boy before Mexico played South Africa in the Mexico City Stadium; Alanis Morissette and Michael Bublé in Toronto before Canada faced Bosnia and Herzegovina; and Katy Perry before the USA’s opening game against Paraguay.
Closing Ceremony Performers and Tournament Finalists
In addition to the half-time show, Fifa has scheduled a closing ceremony for Sunday to begin at 13:30 local time (18:30 BST), 90 minutes before the 15:00 local time (20:00 BST) kick-off. The ceremony will feature performances from Tom Cruise, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams, and IShowSpeed, with Jennifer Hudson set to sing the United States’ national anthem.
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| Event Component | Expected Timing |
|---|---|
| Closing Ceremony | 13:30 local time |
| Kick-off | 15:00 local time |
| Half-time Show | Interval (approx. 20–30 mins) |
As the tournament reaches its conclusion, Spain has secured a spot in the final after beating France 2-0 in the first semi-final in Dallas on Tuesday. They will face either England or Argentina, who are scheduled to meet in Atlanta on Wednesday.
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