The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final is making history long before the trophy is lifted. For the first time ever, FIFA will stage a Super Bowl-style halftime show, transforming the sport’s biggest match into a global entertainment spectacle alongside the championship clash between Spain and Argentina.
Scheduled for Sunday, July 19, 2026, at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the final combines one of soccer’s most anticipated matchups with an ambitious live music production curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin in partnership with Global Citizen. Whether you’re watching from home or attending one of the official fan events, here’s everything you need to know.
When Does the FIFA World Cup Halftime Show Start?
The World Cup Final kicks off at 3:00 p.m. ET on July 19.
Unlike previous FIFA tournaments, halftime has been extended to accommodate the inaugural live performance. Based on FIFA’s operational plan, viewers can expect the halftime show to begin approximately 3:45 p.m. ET, though the exact timing will depend on the first-half stoppage time.
The extended break follows a successful rehearsal during the FIFA Club World Cup Final earlier this year, when organizers used a 24-minute halftime to host performances without disrupting the playing surface.
How to Watch the FIFA World Cup Halftime Show on TV
English-language broadcast
FOX Sports owns the exclusive English-language television rights in the United States.
Fans can watch the World Cup Final and halftime show on:
- FOX (local affiliates)
- FOX One
- FOX Sports App
- YouTube TV
- Hulu + Live TV
- Fubo
- Sling TV
- DirecTV Stream
Viewers with a digital antenna can also watch FOX free over the air.
Spanish-language broadcast
NBCUniversal carries the Spanish-language coverage.
The event will air on:
- Telemundo
- Universo
- Telexitos
Streaming is available through:
- Peacock
- Telemundo App
Who Is Performing at the FIFA World Cup Halftime Show?
Chris Martin serves as the show’s curator, assembling one of the most diverse lineups ever featured during a sporting event.
Confirmed performers include:
- Madonna
- Shakira
- Justin Bieber
- BTS
- Burna Boy
Beyond entertainment, the show also supports Global Citizen’s philanthropic initiatives, adding a charitable dimension to one of the largest broadcasts of the year.
Can You Watch the Halftime Show for Free?
Yes.
Anyone with access to a local FOX affiliate through an antenna can watch both the match and halftime show without paying for cable or a streaming subscription.
Spanish-speaking viewers will also have free access through Telemundo’s over-the-air broadcasts in many markets.
Central Park Will Host the Biggest Official Watch Party
Supporters who couldn’t secure tickets for MetLife Stadium still have an opportunity to experience the atmosphere.
Global Citizen will host the official FIFA World Cup Final watch party on the Great Lawn in Central Park, welcoming up to 50,000 fans.
Gates open at 12:00 p.m. ET, giving attendees time to enjoy live entertainment before kickoff. Giant screens will broadcast both the championship match and the halftime performance, making it one of the largest public viewing events ever organized for a FIFA final.
A New Era for FIFA Entertainment
The halftime show represents one of the biggest structural changes in the tournament’s 96-year history. Alongside the introduction of NBA-style championship rings for the winning team, FIFA is embracing several North American sports traditions as the competition continues to expand commercially.
Meanwhile, the action on the pitch remains just as compelling. Spain enters the final as reigning European champion, while Argentina defends both the FIFA World Cup and Copa América titles in what could become Lionel Messi’s final appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Leave a Reply