FIFA looks likely to bend its own rule on the duration of half-time breaks to accommodate a first-ever live performance component attached to the World Cup Final. Given the American-style entertainment package, the practicality of execution within the traditionally allotted time is reportedly untenable.
Law 7 of the FIFA International Football Association of Boards (IFAB), halftime breaks should not exceed 15 minutes. However, based on the newly introduced Super Bowl-style performance, the 2026 finale is reportedly set to break that norm.
According to reports, the halftime interval could last between 25 and 30 minutes based on the time required for stage set-up and removal, as well as the number of artistes set to perform as part of the Entertainment package on Sunday’s climax at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
It’s further understood that FIFA would be using a loophole via referee authorisation. According to rule 7.2, while the competition rules on halftime duration must be stated in advance, the prescribed time may be altered.
The halftime show extravaganza will include performances from Latin/Pop Superstar Shakira, Afrobeats giant Burna Boy, Alternative rock mega-group Coldplay, K-pop sensation BTS, Pop stars Justn Beiber, Moadonna as well as cameos from superstreamer iShowspeed and action star Tom Cruise, among notable names.
Breaks have been a sour topic of discussion throughout the jointly hosted tournament following the introduction of hydration breaks during each match. While FIFA notes it aimed to counter the extreme heat for players, many fans and even players themselves have questioned its necessity, with some analysts expressing that it breaks the momentum of plays and is seen as a ploy for commercial plugs for sponsors.
