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FIFA is set to embrace an American-style tradition during this summer’s World Cup final, to be held at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, July 19, when the two semi-final winners will battle for the ultimate football crown.

While fans are accustomed to pre-match entertainment at major finals, this year’s World Cup final will introduce a Super Bowl-inspired half-time performance — or, as FIFA insists on calling it, a “halftime show,” without a space or hyphen.

The half-time spectacle is being curated by Chris Martin from Coldplay, reportedly featuring international superstars such as Madonna, Shakira, and BTS. The inclusion of these major artists has sparked both excitement and debate among broadcasters and football fans alike.

However, both the BBC and ITV have opted not to air the half-time show live during their main World Cup final broadcasts. Instead, they plan to continue with their traditional expert analysis and commentary panels during the break, maintaining focus on the football rather than turning the coverage into a music festival.

According to reports, the show will still be accessible through both networks’ digital platforms for those who wish to watch the performance online.

Earlier this month, concerns were raised regarding the duration of the half-time show. The Guardian reported that rights holders were becoming ‘increasingly frustrated’ with FIFA’s reluctance to confirm an exact run-time for the segment.

Sources suggest the production is expected to last between 12 and 15 minutes. However, there is widespread doubt about whether the elaborate stage setup required for artists like Madonna and BTS can be efficiently assembled and dismantled within the 15-minute window mandated by the Laws of the Game.

Some broadcasters have even expressed worries that the interval could extend to as long as 25 or 30 minutes, potentially disrupting the flow of the match. Commercial television channels, in particular, are frustrated by the lack of clarity, as an extended break could present valuable opportunities for additional advertising slots.

Despite the uncertainty, FIFA sources have described the situation as ‘fluid,’ leaving room for last-minute adjustments. For now, UK viewers can expect to see the BBC and ITV prioritise football discussion over musical spectacle — meaning Madonna, Shakira, and BTS may well be absent from the main televised broadcast in Britain.