The halftime show at the recent World Cup Final, featuring a lineup of international pop stars and the Muppets, has ignited widespread criticism from British viewers who have labeled it an "abomination" and a "complete mockery" of the sport.
Billions watched as Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in a closely contested match. However, the 25-minute interval entertainment, which included performances by Madonna, Justin Bieber, BTS, Shakira, and The Muppets, has overshadowed the game's outcome for many.
Social media platforms were flooded with complaints from viewers who expressed dissatisfaction with the show's length and content. Many felt the American-style, Super Bowl-esque presentation was out of place for a football (soccer) final. The delay caused by the extended performance also meant teams had to wait longer than the standard 15 minutes to return to the pitch.
"I just want to watch football, and I'm being forced to endure Justin Bieber and The Muppets," one viewer posted on X, formerly Twitter. Another described the show as a "fever dream," lamenting the departure from traditional halftime analysis and expressing a preference for more football-focused content during the break.
Former England star Wayne Rooney criticized the performance as "crap" and "flat," stating his favorite part was "when it finished." He added, "I did honestly. It just didn't get me going, I wanted the football to be back on."
Singer Liam Gallagher commented, "This is like a bad trip," while television personality Sam Thompson expressed frustration that the show interrupted the "headspace" of fans and players alike.
Even with appearances from football legends Ronaldo Nazario and Ronaldinho alongside Madonna, and Shakira performing with Burna Boy, the show failed to impress many. The inclusion of The Muppets also drew mixed reactions, with some finding it a bizarre addition to the otherwise star-studded lineup.
The halftime entertainment concluded with a choir of children singing a unity song led by Chris Martin of Coldplay. The event also featured a closing ceremony with performances by Post Malone, Tom Cruise, and Jennifer Hudson.
Critics have called for such elaborate halftime shows to be eliminated from future World Cup tournaments, with some suggesting that the United States should not be granted hosting rights again due to this "final fiasco."