Justin Bieber headlines historic first FIFA World Cup final halftime show

Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber

Canadian pop superstar Justin Bieber has been confirmed as one of the headline performers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show, joining an all-star lineup featuring Madonna, Shakira and BTS for the tournament’s first-ever halftime entertainment.

The show will take place on July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium, combining football, music and philanthropy on one of the world’s biggest sporting stages.

Organisers said the event will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to raise $100 million to expand access to education and football opportunities for children worldwide.

Expressing his excitement, Bieber said the World Cup remains a unique platform for bringing people together across cultures.

“The FIFA World Cup brings the world together in a way nothing else can.

“I’m grateful to be part of this Halftime Show, and even more grateful knowing it’s already helping expand access to education for children around the world.”

The education fund has already surpassed the halfway point towards its target, with $1 from every World Cup match ticket contributing to the campaign.

Produced by Global Citizen in partnership with Live Nation and Done + Dusted, the 11-minute halftime show will also feature performances by Burna Boy, acclaimed conductor Gustavo Dudamel, and PS22 Chorus, a choir from Staten Island performing alongside Coldplay.

The production is being curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the event as a powerful platform for promoting education and global unity.

“When it comes to what the world needs, there is nothing more important than education.

“We are proud to have Justin Bieber joining Madonna, Shakira and BTS to co-headline the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund and our mission to expand access to quality education and football opportunities for children around the world.”

He added, “Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel and PS22 Chorus featuring Coldplay will also join and play a key role in conveying a powerful message of unity and hope to billions of people worldwide.”

Infantino said the World Cup final would celebrate football while leaving a lasting humanitarian legacy.

“As the world unites for the most significant football match in history on Sunday, July 19, 2026, this groundbreaking spectacle, curated by Chris Martin of Coldplay, will celebrate football, music and our shared values, ensuring a legacy that transcends the final whistle.”

Global Citizen Co-Founder and CEO Hugh Evans said the performance could become one of the most-watched musical broadcasts in history.

“This is the single largest gathering of artists united for a cause since Live Aid, and it could well be the most-watched 11 minutes of broadcast music performance in history.”

In addition to the musical performances, the halftime show will feature appearances by the iconic Sesame Street Muppets, adding a family-friendly dimension to the landmark event.

The 2026 World Cup has already showcased several high-profile performances, including appearances by Katy Perry, Future, Tyla, Lisa of Blackpink, Anitta, Rema, Shakira and Burna Boy during the tournament’s opening ceremonies.

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