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The World Cup halftime show’s goals: Go fast and keep off the grass

FIFA is introducing its first-ever World Cup halftime show, blending American-style spectacle with a star-studded global lineup.

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📍 The outcome

The World Cup final featured a star-studded halftime show and closing ceremony with performances by artists including Justin Bieber, Shakira, BTS, Post Malone, and Jennifer Hudson. The event was described as an American-style spectacle that broke longstanding tradition, though it drew criticism from The Cure's Robert Smith.

Verizon prepared for record-setting network spikes during the broadcast.

Epilogue added 45d ago, after coverage quieted.

The story so far

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final will feature a first-of-its-kind halftime show and closing ceremony. Performers scheduled for these events include Justin Bieber, Shakira, BTS, Post Malone, and Jennifer Hudson. The introduction of the halftime show breaks a longstanding FIFA tradition.

Coverage from WIRED and Forbes emphasizes the shift toward American-style spectacle. Fast Company reports that Verizon is preparing for record-setting network spikes during the broadcast. However, the move has faced criticism, with Robert Smith of The Cure slamming the halftime show concept.

Attention remains on the final event's timing and streaming options, as well as the identity of the performer for the United States' national anthem.

Synthesized by Newsylist from the headlines below under a strict no-invention contract. ✓ fact-checked: all claims supported by sources Updated 45d ago.

Who reported it (11)

The obvious questions

Who is performing at the 2026 World Cup final events?

The lineup includes Justin Bieber, Shakira, BTS, Post Malone, and Jennifer Hudson.

Why is this halftime show significant?

According to Forbes and WIRED, it breaks a longstanding tradition and brings American-style spectacle to the world stage.

How are technical providers responding to the event?

Verizon is preparing for record-setting network spikes expected during the first-ever halftime show.

Momentum

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9630Jul 19 20:29Jul 21 11:29 UTC

People, places & organizations

World Cup Fifa World Cup United States Closing World Cup Halftime Show Puts American-Style Spectacle World Stage Justin Bieber Shakira BTS and More Performing World Cup Final Closing Ceremony and Halftime Show Post Malone Jennifer Hudson Closing Ceremony Start Time Live Stream and Latest Rumors

Topics

FIFA World Cup 2026 Verizon Robert Smith BTS Shakira

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