The halftime break for Sunday's World Cup final has been extended to last between 20 and 25 minutes to accommodate an 11-minute performance. This expanded interval will feature a "Super Bowl-style" show headlined by Madonna, Shakira, and the K-pop group BTS.
While FIFA organizers suggest a 20-minute break, one scenario involves the standard 15-minute interval followed by the 11-minute show. The Laws of the Game, overseen by the International Football Association Board (Ifab), stipulate that players are entitled to a halftime break not exceeding 15 minutes.
This is not the first time a FIFA event has featured an extended halftime for entertainment. Last year's Club World Cup final in New Jersey also had a 24-minute halftime period, which included a performance by artists such as Coldplay, J Balvin, and Doja Cat. For this upcoming final, Justin Bieber has been added to the lineup, joining the previously announced headliners, Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, and the PS22 Chorus. Chris Martin of Coldplay has curated the show.
The World Cup final is scheduled to kick off at 3:00 PM local time (8:00 PM BST). A closing ceremony will precede the match, beginning at 1:30 PM local time (6:30 PM BST). The closing ceremony will feature performances by Tom Cruise, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams, and IShowSpeed, with Jennifer Hudson set to sing the United States' national anthem.
Spain secured their spot in the final by defeating France 2-0 in the first semifinal. They await the winner of the second semifinal between England and Argentina.