Alan Rothenberg recalls 1994 World Cup performance plans
The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 9, 2026, 7:00 PM
Last updated Jun 9, 2026
Alan Rothenberg, who oversaw the 1994 World Cup, reflected on his desire for Whitney Houston to perform on the pitch during the final at Pasadena’s Rose Bowl. FIFA rejected this plan, insisting she remain on the sidelines. As the World Cup approaches at MetLife Stadium next month, Rothenberg contrasts past ambitions with the forthcoming Super Bowl-style halftime show featuring Madonna and Shakira.
- •Alan Rothenberg was the chair and chief executive of the 1994 World Cup.
- •FIFA did not allow Whitney Houston to perform on the pitch.
- •The 2026 World Cup final will feature a halftime show by Madonna and Shakira.
- •Rothenberg observes the transformation of football in America over 32 years.
- 7:00 PMThe Guardian Sport — World Cup 94 chief Alan Rothenberg: ‘We wanted Whitney Houston on the pitch but Fifa said no’
"The man in charge the last time the US hosted the World Cup marvels at the transformation of football in America over the last 32 years The Super Bowl-style half-time show curated by Chris Martin for the World Cup final will not be to everybody’s tastes, but one octogenarian American will have a wry smile on his face when Madonna and Shakira walk out on to the pitch at MetLife Stadium next month. In his role as chair and chief executive of the 1994 World Cup, Alan Rothenberg wanted Whitney Houston to perform on the pitch at the final at Pasadena’s Rose Bowl, only to be overruled by Fifa, who insisted that the singer stay on the sidelines. Continue reading...
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