Justin Bieber joins star-studded World Cup final halftime show

Justin Bieber will join Madonna, Shakira and BTS to perform at the first-ever FIFA World Cup final halftime show in New York on 19 July.

The Canadian pop star was announced on Wednesday by world football’s governing body as the latest addition to an expansive line-up mirroring an NFL Super Bowl event.

Curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, the 11-minute performance aims to support a charitable fund raising $100m (£79m) for children’s education and sporting access.

Global stars unite for historic performance

Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel and the New York-based PS22 Chorus will also feature in the ambitious spectacle alongside Coldplay.

The addition of Burna Boy is particularly significant, as the Nigerian Afrobeats artist collaborated with Shakira on the official tournament anthem.

Their multilingual track blends Latin rhythms with Afrobeats, name-checking prominent competing nations such as Brazil, Argentina and Japan.

“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.”

Justin Bieber

A break from football tradition

While elaborate mid-game entertainment is a staple of American sports, such performances remain highly unusual in traditional association football.

Major fixtures across the globe, including the Champions League final, typically host their musical concerts before the match kicks off rather than during the short 15-minute interval.

The unprecedented mid-match show will also cater to younger audiences with appearances from iconic Muppets characters, including Kermit and Miss Piggy.

“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,” Burna Boy added.