Top News

DON’T MISS A MOMENT OF THE WORLD CUP

Justin Bieber will perform at the World Cup final half-time show alongside Shakira, Madonna and BTS

The 2026 FIFA World Cup promises an unprecedented musical celebration as Canadian pop icon Justin Bieber officially joins the lineup for the tournament’s first-ever final half-time show. Bieber will perform alongside a stellar ensemble featuring Madonna, Shakira and K-pop superstars BTS.

A historic musical celebration in New York

FIFA, in partnership with Global Citizen, has confirmed that Bieber is the latest addition to the line-up for the inaugural World Cup final half-time show, scheduled for July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium.

The artist joins a powerhouse roster of co-headliners that already includes global pop legends Madonna and Shakira, as well as chart-topping Korean group BTS. The show is being creatively directed by Coldplay’s frontman Chris Martin, who continues his role as the international curator for the Global Citizen Festival. Bieber’s participation guarantees that the debut half-time spectacle will be one of the most-viewed live broadcasts ever.

Star power with a purpose

Beyond the impressive line-up, the event carries a strong social message through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. The initiative aims to raise $100 million to improve education access and football opportunities for children worldwide. Expressing his enthusiasm for the cause, Bieber stated, “The FIFA World Cup brings the world together in a way nothing else can. I’m grateful to be part of this Halftime Show, and even more grateful knowing it’s already helping expand access to education for children around the world.”

The musical diversity extends well beyond the main headliners. The production will also feature performances by Nigerian sensation Burna Boy, conductor Gustavo Dudamel, and the PS22 Chorus. Adding a light-hearted touch, The Muppets—featuring Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy—will also make special appearances, turning the show into a truly global and intergenerational celebration of culture and sport.

Showcasing the global spirit of football

Burna Boy, representing Africa on this monumental stage, spoke about the significance of the event. “The FIFA World Cup is one of the few occasions that truly unites the world,” he said. “To represent Africa on the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show is both an honour and a responsibility. I’m proud to be part of a performance that celebrates football and culture while supporting education for children everywhere.”

FIFA President Gianni Infantino echoed this sentiment, underlining the importance of the initiative. “When it comes to what the world needs, there is nothing more important than education,” Infantino said. “We are proud to have Justin Bieber joining Madonna, Shakira and BTS to co-headline the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund and our mission to expand access to quality education and football opportunities for children around the world.”

A new standard for the World Cup

Event organisers are likening the scale of the show to some of the most iconic charity concerts in history. Hugh Evans, co-founder and CEO of Global Citizen, highlighted the magnitude of the upcoming production. “This is the single largest gathering of artists united for a cause since Live Aid, and it could well become the most-watched 11 minutes of broadcast music performance in history,” Evans remarked.

He also urged global political leaders to match the commitment shown by the participating artists. “These exceptional artists, representing every corner of the world, are coming together to create opportunities for children through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. We are calling on world leaders, including President Macron and Prime Minister Sánchez, to embrace this moment of unity by contributing to the Education Fund and ensuring this World Cup establishes a lasting legacy,” he added.