FIFA criticized for halftime show breach and president's silence after World Cup final

Spain defeated Argentina 1‑0 after extra time in the 2026 World Cup final held at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey. FIFA extended the halftime interval far beyond the 15‑minute limit stipulated by the competition rules, running 27 minutes and 24 seconds. The break featured a Super Bowl‑style spectacle with performances by Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira, BTS and others, prompting newspapers to accuse FIFA of breaking its own promises and neglecting the pitch, which was described as poor and uneven.

In the days following the final, FIFA president Gianni Infantino was confronted by reporters in New York about alleged misconduct and a controversial disciplinary decision involving an American forward. Infantino responded only with a thumbs‑up gesture and refused to comment, while security barred further questioning. The episode added to growing criticism of FIFA’s governance during the tournament.