FIFA and Global Citizen surprised everyone by announcing that Justin Bieber will be one of the headliners of the first-ever halftime show in the history of a FIFA World Cup Final—a spectacle that promises to become one of the most-watched musical events of all time.
The Canadian singer will share the stage with Madonna, Shakira, and BTS during the 2026 World Cup final, which will take place on July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium, marking a turning point in the tournament’s history.
For the first time, a World Cup Final will feature a halftime show in the style of major international sporting events. The production will bring together some of the biggest names in global music for an 11-minute performance designed to combine entertainment, sports, and a message of social impact.
In addition to Bieber, Madonna, Shakira, and BTS, the stage will also feature Nigerian singer Burna Boy, who is currently enjoying global success with “Dai Dai,” a collaboration with Shakira.
The show will also include renowned Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel, music director of the New York Philharmonic, as well as the award-winning PS 22 Chorus, accompanied by Coldplay.
Gianni Infantino highlights the event’s educational impact
FIFA President Gianni Infantino explained that the show goes far beyond music.
As he noted, the main goal will be to promote the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative that seeks to expand access to education and soccer for girls and boys around the world.
“When we think about what the world needs, there is nothing more important than education. We are proud that Justin Bieber is joining Madonna, Shakira, and BTS to headline this historic show in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund,” he said.
Infantino also highlighted that the participation of Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, and the PS 22 choir will help convey a message of hope, unity, and inclusion to billions of viewers.
Justin Bieber and Burna Boy celebrate being part of the World Cup
After his participation was confirmed, Justin Bieber expressed his enthusiasm about being part of one of the most important sporting events on the planet.
“The World Cup brings the world together like nothing else can. I’m grateful to be part of this show and even more so to know that it’s already helping to expand access to education for children around the world.”
The Canadian artist will be one of the show’s main attractions, marking his return to a global stage.
Another confirmed artist is Burna Boy, who said he feels proud to represent the African continent at an event of this magnitude.
“The World Cup is one of the few moments that truly unites the entire world. Representing Africa in the first-ever World Cup Final halftime show is both a privilege and a responsibility.”
The singer added that the performance will also help create greater educational opportunities for millions of children.
Sesame Street will also be featured
One of the most eye-catching announcements was the inclusion of characters from Sesame Street and The Muppets in the show. Their participation aims to reinforce the event’s central message: promoting access to quality education for children through initiatives led by FIFA and Global Citizen.
The characters will appear in various segments of the show, bringing the educational message to families watching the broadcast around the world.
Chris Martin will oversee the artistic production
Chris Martin, lead singer of Coldplay, will serve as the show’s creative director. He also introduced the official cast in a promotional short film.
The musician said the show’s concept will revolve around a very clear message.
“It will all be about coming together… and everyone is invited.”
The production will be led by Global Citizen, in collaboration with Live Nation and Done + Dusted, companies responsible for some of the world’s most major live shows.
A show that also aims to change lives
Beyond entertainment, the show will serve to raise funds for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, a project that aims to raise $100 million to finance educational and sports programs for girls and boys in vulnerable communities. So far, more than $50 million has been raised, a figure that continues to grow thanks to the fact that one dollar from every ticket sold for the 2026 World Cup will go toward this fund.
The funds will support social projects in various countries, strengthening programs in education, community development, and access to sports.
The 2026 World Cup will make history both on and off the field
With a lineup headlined by Justin Bieber, Madonna, Shakira, and BTS, as well as international artists such as Burna Boy and Gustavo Dudamel, the 2026 World Cup Final promises not only to deliver one of the most ambitious musical spectacles in soccer history. It also aims to leave a lasting legacy through education, demonstrating that sports and music can become powerful tools for fostering opportunities, inclusion, and hope for millions of children around the world.
