FIFA's senior pitch manager has expressed concern over World Cup pitch conditions, with Shakira's final half-time show adding further stress on playing surfaces

NEW YORK (AP) — The World Cup final will feature a star-studded halftime show headlined by Madonna, Shakira and boy band BTS. FIFA announced Thursday that, for the first time, the final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19 will include a Super Bowl-style concert.

FIFA’s decision to introduce its first-ever World Cup Final halftime show featuring BTS, Shakira, and Madonna is being viewed as a major shift in global sports entertainment. BTS’ worldwide influence and massive fan engagement make them central to FIFA’s strategy to attract younger audiences and expand digital reach.

Soccer is following football with a loaded halftime show at this summer's World Cup final, and we take a deep dive into trying to make sense of it all and grading the booked performers

BTS, Madonna and Shakira will perform at the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final halftime show, curated by Coldplay's Chris Martin, the first ever for the tournament.

Shakira will have some special guests performing with her at this year's World Cup half time show... The Ghetto Kids dance troupe from Uganda. The young performers, who are aged between 4 and 16, say they're looking forward to it.

FIFA is bringing Super Bowl-style entertainment to the 2026 World Cup Final with a halftime show starring Madonna, Shakira, and BTS.

After years of preparation and anticipation, the 2026 World Cup begins this week. Here's what you need to know about the world's biggest sporting event.