Move over, Super Bowl? There's an even bigger – and splashier
The 2026 World Cup final is adopting a Super Bowl-style spectacle, featuring a high-profile halftime show that has sparked both excitement and controversy.
📍 The outcome
The World Cup final halftime show drew comparisons to the Super Bowl and featured various celebrity performers. The event faced criticism from Robert Smith of The Cure and questions regarding the performance of the US national anthem.
The story quieted without a definitive conclusion in the coverage.
Epilogue added 43d ago, after coverage quieted.
What happened
FIFA is organizing an extensive halftime show for the World Cup final, featuring multiple celebrity performers. According to broadcasting sources reported by Reuters, the segment is expected to last more than 15 minutes. The production goals involve maintaining a fast pace and protecting the pitch grass.
Coverage from NBC News and The New York Times emphasizes the event's similarity to the Super Bowl, though it describes the show as crowded and contested. People.com and Euronews report that Robert Smith of The Cure has lashed out at the production. Additionally, USA Today notes that FIFA has provided an explanation for the performance of the US national anthem during the final.
Upcoming developments include the final list of celebrity performers and the execution of the show's logistical goals to keep artists off the grass.
Synthesized by Newsylist from the headlines below under a strict no-invention contract. ✓ fact-checked: all claims supported by sources Updated 43d ago.
Who reported it (8)
- The World Cup halftime show’s goals: Go fast and keep off the grass The Washington Post · 45d ago
- How the World Cup final is starting to look a lot like the Super Bowl NBC News · 45d ago
- It’s a Crowded and Contested World Cup Halftime Show The New York Times · 45d ago
- The Cure’s Robert Smith Takes Aim at FIFA’s World Cup Final Half-Time Show: ‘Just F- - People.com · 45d ago
- Why are they performing the US national anthem at World Cup final? FIFA explains USA Today · 45d ago
- The Cure’s Robert Smith lashes out at the World Cup halftime show Euronews.com · 45d ago
- World Cup final halftime to last more than 15 minutes, broadcasting sources say Reuters · 45d ago
- Every Celebrity Set to Perform at the 2026 World Cup Final Sports Illustrated · 45d ago broke it first
Questions people are asking
How long will the halftime show last?
Broadcasting sources told Reuters it will last more than 15 minutes.
Who has criticized the event?
Robert Smith of The Cure has spoken out against the World Cup final halftime show.
What are the technical goals for the performance?
According to The Washington Post, the goals are to move quickly and stay off the grass.
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