Burna Boy Confirmed for Historic First FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show
Grammy Award-winning Nigerian artiste Burna Boy has been confirmed as one of the headline performers at the inaugural FIFA World Cup final halftime show, scheduled for the 2026 World Cup final on July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
FIFA announced the lineup on Wednesday, revealing that Burna Boy will perform alongside global music stars Justin Bieber, Shakira, Madonna, South Korean pop group BTS, acclaimed conductor Gustavo Dudamel, the PS22 Chorus and British rock band Coldplay.
The 11-minute performance, the first halftime show in FIFA World Cup final history, will adopt the entertainment format popularised by the NFL’s Super Bowl.
The show is being curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin.Speaking on the announcement, Burna Boy described the opportunity to represent Africa on football’s biggest stage as both an honour and a responsibility.
“The FIFA World Cup is one of the few moments that truly brings the entire world together.
To represent Africa on the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show is a privilege and a responsibility that I don’t take lightly,” he said.
Justin Bieber also welcomed the initiative, saying he was grateful to be part of a performance that would help expand access to education for children around the world.
According to FIFA, the halftime show will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative designed to improve access to quality education and football opportunities for children globally.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the World Cup final presents a unique opportunity to promote education through the power of football, adding that the event reflects FIFA’s commitment to creating greater opportunities for children worldwide.
