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Justin Bieber to headline World Cup final halftime show alongside Madonna, BTS

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Justin Bieber to headline World Cup final halftime show alongside Madonna, BTS
Justin Bieber to headline World Cup final halftime show alongside Madonna, BTS [Courtesy]

Justin Bieber has been confirmed as the final co-headliner for the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show, joining Madonna, Shakira and BTS in a star-studded performance during the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.

The historic 11-minute show will take place on Sunday, July 19, at New York New Jersey Stadium, formerly known as MetLife Stadium.

Curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, the halftime show will also feature Burna Boy, Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel, the New York Philharmonic's Music and Artistic Director, and the award-winning PS22 Chorus alongside Coldplay.

Sesame Street and The Muppets characters will also make appearances as part of the production.

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A post shared by Justin Bieber (@lilbieber)

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the performance would celebrate football while highlighting the importance of education through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.

"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," Infantino said.

He added that Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel and the PS22 Chorus featuring Coldplay would help deliver "a powerful message of unity and hope" to billions of viewers worldwide.

The FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund aims to raise Sh12.9 billion ($100 million) to expand access to quality education and football opportunities for children globally.

According to FIFA, more than Sh6.46 billion ($50 million) has already been raised, with Sh129 ($1) from every FIFA World Cup 2026 match ticket going towards the initiative.

Bieber said he was honoured to be part of the landmark event.

"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," he said.

Burna Boy described representing Africa at the inaugural halftime show as both a privilege and a responsibility.

"The FIFA World Cup is one of the few moments that truly brings the entire world together. Representing Africa at the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show is a privilege and a responsibility I don't take lightly. I'm honoured to be part of a performance that not only celebrates football and culture but also helps create greater opportunities for children through education around the world," he said.

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