The half-time break at the upcoming World Cup final will last between 20 and 30 minutes, exceeding the usual 15 minutes allowed by IFAB regulations to accommodate an 11-minute star-studded show [1, 2, 3]. This marks the first time a mid-game entertainment show is introduced in the World Cup final, inspired by the Super Bowl format [2, 3].
Performers confirmed include Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Justin Bieber, Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, the PS22 Chorus, and Coldplay frontman Chris Martin who is serving as curator for the event [1, 2, 3]. The show is expected to be a major spectacle during the extended break.
The normal half-time break duration is 15 minutes, but to fit the elaborate performance, officials have extended it significantly. Sources differ slightly on the exact length, with some indicating a break of 20 to 25 minutes, while others say it could last as long as 30 minutes [1, 2, 3]. The Athletic noted reporting that organizers aim to keep the break near 20 minutes including the show [2].
This comes after last year's Club World Cup final, which also exceeded the standard half-time length due to a mid-game show, lasting about 24 to 25 minutes [1, 3]. The decision to extend the break at the World Cup final follows that precedent but raises concerns among some about its potential impact on players' fitness and rhythm during the match [2, 3].
The World Cup final will kick off Sunday at 15:00 local time (20:00 BST), with the closing ceremony scheduled to start at 13:30 local time (18:30 BST) [1]. The extended half-time show represents a rare break from traditional tournament formats, bringing in major global music stars to a global football audience.
Spain secured their place in the final after a 2-0 win over France last Tuesday, with England and Argentina set to play on Wednesday to decide Spain's opponent [1].
