World Cup final halftime show acts announced
FIFA has confirmed an A-list line-up of acts which will perform in the World Cup half-time show.
Canadian pop star Justin Bieber has joined as co-headliner for the half-time musical performance that will take place at the World Cup final, held on July 19 in New Jersey.
“The FIFA World Cup brings the world together in a way nothing else can. I’m grateful to be part of this Half-time Show, and even more grateful knowing it’s already helping expand access to education for children around the world," Bieber said.
The 'Baby singer will be joined by the legendary Madonna, K-Pop sensations BTS and World Cup icon Shakira, whose song 'Dai Dai' , with Burna Boy, is the official anthem of the tournament and played before every match.
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While World Cups have had opening ceremonies in recent years - with this year's edition having three for each of the co-hosts - it's the first time the final will have a half-time show, similar to the iconic performance put on during the Super Bowl.
Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel, PS 22 Chorus featuring Coldplay, The Muppets, characters from Sesame Street, will also be performing in the show that is set to last 11 minutes.
The line-up has been curated by Coldplay's Chris Martin.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino: “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 Half-time 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.
“Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel and PS 22 Chorus ft. Coldplay will also join and play a key role in conveying a powerful message of unity and hope to billions of people worldwide.
"As the world unites for the most significant football match in history on Sunday, 19 July 2026 at the New York New Jersey Stadium, 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.”
How much does it cost to attend the World Cup?
Football fans wanting to watch the games in person better have deep pockets. Here’s what flights, accommodation, tickets and food and drink will cost England supporters:
Getting there
For those who managed to catch England’s opening game against Croatia on 17 June, a return flight from London to Dallas, Texas would have set them back around £700, according to Skyscanner.
The second and third games are a little cheaper to get to - £400 if you want to watch the Three Lions go up against Ghana in Boston on 23 June, and £500 to see them play Panama in New York on 27 June.
But now you need somewhere to stay.
Hotel costs
NBC has crunched the numbers on hotels, looking at the average for the five cheapest hotels within 15 miles of the station as of late last month.
In Atlanta for the opening match, the average hotel room is £350 for two nights, and that’s on the cheap side.
A hotel to watch the second game in the group stages in Boston will cost £725, and the third in New York will be £485.
Now to get your ticket for the game…
Ticket prices
Tickets for the opening game against Croatia went for around £430, via Seatpick.
England vs Ghana will set you back at least £330, and the match against Panama £250.
I bet all that number crunching has made you thirsty…
Food and drink prices at the World Cup
Unlike in the UK, football fans are allowed to drink in the stands in the US, Canada and Mexico - if they’re made of money, that is.
Prices at a warm-up match between England and New Zealand at the Raymond James stadium in Tampa, Florida on 6 June gave an indication of what to expect in the World Cup proper, which is bad news for fans.
A large beer was advertised at $18.75 (£13.99), while just a bottle of water was priced at $7.50 (£5.60).
Meanwhile, according to Football Ground Guide, a basic meal and a beer will set you back $23.88 (£17.83) at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, where England’s first game took place.
For England’s second game at the Boston Stadium (also known as the Gillette Stadium), according to Football 2026 hot dogs went for £6.30, while burgers set punters back £10.45.
Meanwhile, a basic meal and a beer at the MetLife stadium for England’s match against Panama will cost you £24.87.
Topics: Football, Music, World Cup, Justin Bieber, Madonna
Daniel Murphy