ITV and BBC are set to broadcast FIFA’s much-discussed half-time show from the World Cup final at the New York New Jersey Stadium this Sunday, although the duration of the performance remains uncertain.
Concerns about the length of the half-time entertainment, curated by Chris Martin of Coldplay and featuring artists like Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira, and the K-pop group BTS, were highlighted last month. The interval is expected to last around 25 to 30 minutes.
Despite these uncertainties, both UK broadcasters have opted to air the full performance. They believe that the necessary time for stage setup and teardown will allow for adequate analysis of the match.
A similar half-time show took place during the Club World Cup final last year at the same venue, resulting in a 24-minute break. However, this year’s show will involve additional logistical challenges due to the stage setup on the pitch, potentially extending the delay beyond expectations. The performance itself is anticipated to run approximately 11 minutes.
According to the International Football Association Board’s regulations, players are entitled to a half-time break not exceeding 15 minutes, which can only be modified with the referee’s consent. This situation raises the possibility of FIFA violating these rules, although there has been no indication of any objections from officials at IFAB.
FIFA has significantly ramped up pre-match entertainment during this World Cup, particularly catering to American audiences. The opening matches in host cities featured elaborate musical ceremonies, including performances by Shakira and Burna Boy before Mexico’s match against South Africa in Mexico City.
In Toronto, Alanis Morissette and Michael Bublé led a show prior to the Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina match, while Katy Perry performed ahead of the USA’s opening game against Paraguay.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino referred to the half-time show as a “players are entitled to an interval at half‑time, not exceeding 15 minutes, and it may be altered only with the referee’s permission” designed to “celebrate football, music and our shared values, ensuring a legacy that transcends the final whistle”
Additionally, FIFA will hold a closing ceremony 90 minutes before the final kick-off, featuring performances by Robbie Williams and Jennifer Hudson.
