Canadian pop star Justin Bieber has been added to the lineup for the first-ever FIFA World Cup final half-time show, scheduled for July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The 11-minute, Super Bowl-style performance will also feature Madonna, Shakira, and K-pop group BTS, alongside newly announced acts Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, and the PS22 Chorus collaborating with Coldplay.
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Organizers confirmed the musical showcase will benefit the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative aiming to raise $100 million for children globally.
“The FIFA World Cup brings the world together in a way nothing else can,” said Justin Bieber.
The singer returned to live performance earlier this spring at the Coachella festival after canceling his Justice world tour due to health concerns.
“I’m grateful to be part of this half-time show, and even more grateful knowing it’s already helping expand access to education for children around the world,” Bieber added.
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The event, curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, has raised concerns about the standard 15-minute half-time interval due to the logistical demands of setting up and dismantling the stage.
A previous trial at the FIFA Club World Cup final extended the break to over 24 minutes, drawing criticism regarding player performance impacts.
“This is the single largest gathering of artists united for a cause since Live Aid, and it could well be the most-watched 11 minutes of broadcast music performance in history,” said Hugh Evans, co-founder and CEO of Global Citizen.
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The tournament continues with quarter-finals: France vs. Morocco in Boston, Spain vs. Belgium in Los Angeles, Norway vs. England in Miami, and defending champions Argentina vs. Switzerland in Kansas City.
