BTS to Headline Historic World Cup Halftime Show with Madonna and Shakira: What to Expect?

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BTS will take the stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, joining Madonna and Shakira as co-headliners of the halftime show — a high-profile booking that underscores the group’s global influence.

FIFA and Global Citizen announced that BTS will perform during the halftime show at the World Cup final this July at a stadium in New Jersey. It will be the first time an official halftime show has been held during a World Cup final.

Organizers are positioning the performance as a large-scale global event that blends sport, music and culture. FIFA and Global Citizen say their goal is to create an iconic moment that audiences around the world can share.

BTS will co-headline the main stage with Madonna and Shakira. With artists representing multiple generations appearing together, expectations are high for a memorable performance.

The show will carry significance beyond entertainment. Presented as part of FIFA and Global Citizen’s education fund campaign, it will highlight efforts to expand access to education and sports for children in underserved communities worldwide.

BTS has a history of working with Global Citizen: the group participated in Global Citizen Live in 2021, and Jungkook strengthened his World Cup ties through the Qatar World Cup’s official soundtrack and opening ceremony.

The members said they were honored to perform on a stage that brings the world together. They added that they hope to convey messages of hope and unity through music and to support efforts to broaden educational opportunities for children.

The halftime show will be broadcast live worldwide. Coldplay’s Chris Martin will contribute to the production, and characters from Sesame Street and The Muppets are expected to appear, giving the event broad family appeal.

Meanwhile, BTS will continue their North American tour, beginning at Stanford Stadium in the U.S. and moving through major stadium dates up to Las Vegas, maintaining the group’s global momentum.

Photo = Provided by FIFA / Yonhap News Agencyn