FIFA’s recent decision to introduce a Super Bowl-style half-time show for the 2026 World Cup final has stirred debate. While FIFA is known for grand events, some believe this addition to football’s most important match is unnecessary.
Purists argue that it detracts from the sport’s most significant game. However, others see it as a modern development, aligning football with major commercial events like the Super Bowl.
Some recall that the FA Cup final once had musical performances, though featuring bands like the Coldstream Guards rather than artists like Coldplay.
Next year’s final in New Jersey will see Coldplay, at the request of FIFA president Gianni Infantino, curating artists for a half-time show, similar to the Super Bowl.
Hopefully, it will avoid a repeat of Janet Jackson’s infamous “wardrobe malfunction” from 2004 involving Justin Timberlake.
Given the Nipple-gate incident, Dolly Parton is unlikely to be chosen by FIFA.
The World Cup final has always been about the football itself. It is the pinnacle of the sport, globally watched, where history and legends are created.
Introducing a Hollywood-style entertainment segment into this intense battle for victory seems unnecessary and misplaced.
The Super Bowl half-time show often attracts more viewers than the game, featuring stars like Beyonce, Rihanna, Madonna, Prince, Michael Jackson, and Lady Gaga. Except for Janet Jackson, they avoided wardrobe mishaps.
Traditionally, football half-time is a 15-minute tactical break for players to regroup and for managers to give team talks, while fans take a breather. A longer half-time could affect players and disrupt the sporting drama.
Do fans, deeply engaged in the game, really want a pop concert during this crucial break? Considering issues like VAR delays, adding a long half-time show might inconvenience supporters, and they will ultimately bear the costs through ticket prices.
The upcoming World Cup, hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, seems to be influencing FIFA’s decision towards American sports culture.
The Super Bowl half-time show is a major global event with high production values and celebrity performers. However, football is distinct from American football.
While FIFA may seek new commercial opportunities, the World Cup’s popularity is already immense. This move reflects a growing trend of commercial influence in football, seen in expanded tournaments, mid-season World Cups, and packed club schedules.
FIFA may claim this enhances fan experience, but it feels like over-commercializing an already top-tier event.
Football doesn’t require a half-time headliner. The true stars are the players on the field. This raises concerns about future changes, like DJs after matches, fireworks for penalties, or ads during VAR reviews.
It’s a departure from simpler times when fans enjoyed Bovril and club programmes at half-time, with basic music over the PA system.
The World Cup final is already the greatest show. It doesn’t need extra entertainment to prove it.
