Burna Boy set for World Cup final spotlight as FIFA plans extended halftime show

The halftime break at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final could last up to 30 minutes as football’s governing body prepares an expanded entertainment show that is expected to feature African music star Burna Boy alongside several global artists.

According to The Times, FIFA is planning to extend the traditional 15-minute interval to between 25 and 30 minutes to accommodate a major halftime performance at the tournament’s showpiece event.

If implemented, the move would mark a significant change to football’s long-established matchday format and provide one of Africa’s biggest musical exports with a global stage during the sport’s biggest event.

FIFA prepares star-studded entertainment

The report says the planned entertainment programme is expected to feature Justin Bieber, Shakira, Madonna, Burna Boy, BTS and Coldplay.

Some of the performers are expected to take part in the pre-match ceremony, while others are set to perform during the extended halftime show.

Under the Laws of the Game set by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), halftime intervals should not exceed 15 minutes.

However, The Times reports that the referee appointed for the final will formally approve the longer break, suggesting FIFA has already made the necessary arrangements for the exception.

Previous experiment divided opinion

FIFA has already tested the concept during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final, when halftime lasted around 24 minutes to accommodate a live musical performance.

The decision attracted criticism from finalists Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, with concerns that the extended interval disrupted players’ rhythm and affected their preparations for the second half.

Despite those objections, FIFA appears committed to making entertainment a bigger part of its flagship competitions.

World Cup Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi has previously described the closing ceremony as a celebration that will blend music, culture and football before the world champions lift the trophy.

Longer break could affect teams on the pitch

An extended halftime could also influence the match itself.

Teams that depend on sustained intensity, aggressive pressing or momentum may have to adapt to the longer interruption, while players could benefit from additional recovery time before the decisive second half.

FIFA has not yet officially confirmed the length of the halftime interval or announced the final list of performers. Further details about the ceremony are expected in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup final.