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TV rights holders frustrated by delay of World Cup final halftime show details

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 10, 2026, 4:47 PM

Last updated Jun 10, 2026

TV rights holders frustrated by delay of World Cup final halftime show details

Summary

Fifa has not confirmed the length of the halftime show for the upcoming World Cup final scheduled for next month. This uncertainty is leading to frustration among television rights holders, who are facing challenges with their advertising arrangements. Madonna, Shakira, and BTS are set to perform at the event, which will be the first halftime show of its kind at a World Cup final, curated by Coldplay's Chris Martin. A similar performance during last year's Club World Cup at the MetLife Stadium featured a 24-minute break.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

By the Numbers

•Fifa has yet to confirm halftime show length.
•TV rights holders express growing frustration over uncertainty.
•Madonna, Shakira, and BTS are booked for performances.
•The event is scheduled for MetLife Stadium.
•Last year's halftime break was 24 minutes long.

Latest Updates

4:47 PMThe Guardian Sport — TV rights holders frustrated over World Cup final half-time show delay

What they're saying

"
Fifa still to confirm length of show despite requests Delay is causing issues for advertising teams World Cup TV rights holders are growing increasingly frustrated at Fifa’s failure to confirm the length of the half-time show at next month’s final. Madonna, Shakira and the K-pop boyband BTS have been booked to perform at the MetLife Stadium in the first half-time spectacle at a World Cup final, curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, who put in a surprise performance at last year’s Club World Cup final at the same venue when the break in play lasted 24 minutes. Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Exclusive by Matt Hughes in Mexico City

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