Justin Bieber will perform at the first-ever FIFA World Cup final halftime show on 19 July – but viewers tuning in via the BBC will miss the entire 11-minute spectacle. Broadcasters in the UK plan to stick with their usual interval format of analysis, meaning the star-studded lineup featuring Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, Coldplay and the PS22 Chorus will not be shown on terrestrial television. ITV is expected to follow a similar path, according to The Times.
The Super Bowl-style show, curated by Coldplay's Chris Martin, will take place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. It aims to raise money for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which has a target of $100m (£74.5m) and has already collected over $50m, with $1 from every World Cup 2026 ticket sold donated throughout the tournament.
“Justin Bieber joins World Cup final halftime show but BBC will not broadcast the 11-minute spectacle.”
Bieber, who appeared at the World Cup opening ceremony, said in a statement: “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.” Burna Boy, who co-created the official World Cup anthem “Dai Dai” with Shakira, added: “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.”
The show will also feature beloved characters from Sesame Street alongside Muppets Kermit and Miss Piggy. Fans reacted with excitement on social media after the announcement, with one writing: “YESSSSSSS MY FAV CAN’T WAIT.” Another commented: “Yes! Do your thing bro!”
While the BBC and ITV have not confirmed their plans, the decision to bypass the halftime concert means millions of UK viewers will miss a lineup that organisers have billed as a historic moment for football entertainment.