ITV and BBC are set to broadcast the entire half-time show from the FIFA World Cup final at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday, although the duration of the performance remains unclear.
Concerns regarding the length of the half-time spectacle, curated by Chris Martin of Coldplay and featuring stars like Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira, and the K-pop group BTS, were previously reported. The interval is expected to run between 25 and 30 minutes.
Both UK broadcasters have opted to air the show in its entirety, anticipating they will have enough time to discuss the game, considering the logistics of setting up and dismantling the stage.
FIFA hosted a half-time show at the Club World Cup final last year at the same venue, which resulted in a 24-minute break. However, that event occurred in the stands, and the additional setup requirements for the pitch could extend the delay on Sunday. The show itself is projected to last around 11 minutes.
The International Football Association Board’s regulations state that players should have a half-time interval not exceeding 15 minutes, which can only be altered with the referee’s consent. FIFA may potentially violate this rule, but no objections from IFAB officials have been reported.
This World Cup has seen a notable increase in pre-match entertainment, reflecting the expectations of the American audience. The opening matches in the host countries featured elaborate musical ceremonies, with Shakira and Burna Boy performing at the Mexico City Stadium prior to Mexico’s match against South Africa.
Similarly, Alanis Morissette and Michael Bublé headlined a show in Toronto before Canada faced Bosnia and Herzegovina, while Katy Perry performed ahead of the USA’s opening match against Paraguay.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino labeled the half-time show a “players are entitled to an interval at half‑time, not exceeding 15 minutes, and it may be altered only with the referee’s permission” designed to “celebrate football, music and our shared values, ensuring a legacy that transcends the final whistle”
Additionally, FIFA plans to hold a closing ceremony 90 minutes before the final kick-off, featuring performances from Robbie Williams and Jennifer Hudson.
