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Shakira headlines FIFA World Cup 2026 final halftime show
The FIFA World Cup 2026 final featured an unprecedented halftime show that blended pop music and sport. Colombian star Shakira opened the spectacle in a glittering Roberto Cavalli outfit, performing the official tournament anthem “Dai Dai”. She was joined by Madonna, Justin Bieber (who sang the gospel‑styled “Everything Hallelujah”), K‑pop group BTS, and other acts such as Burna Boy and a 20‑musician ensemble led by Gustavo Dudamel. Former footballer Gerard Piqué attended the match with his sons Milan and Sasha, and footage captured his reaction as Shakira performed. The show sparked mixed reactions: pundits Roy Keane and Wayne Rooney mocked the length and energy of the intermission, while fans praised the star‑studded lineup. BTS fans criticised FIFA for not posting an isolated video of the Korean group, accusing the federation of bias. Despite the controversy, the performance was broadcast worldwide and linked to FIFA’s Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to raise $100 million for youth education and sport.
The halftime show marked the first musical interlude in a World Cup final, drawing massive social‑media attention and becoming a cultural talking point alongside the on‑field drama that saw Spain defeat Argentina.