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Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Burna Boy has been confirmed as one of the performers for the inaugural FIFA World Cup final halftime show, joining an impressive lineup of global music stars at what is expected to be one of the biggest entertainment events of 2026.
FIFA announced on Wednesday that the Afrobeats superstar will take to the stage during the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium, where football and music will come together in a groundbreaking spectacle.
The performance marks the first time FIFA has introduced a Super Bowl-style halftime show during a World Cup final, making it a historic moment in the tournament’s history.
Global Stars To Share The Stage
Burna Boy will perform alongside several internationally acclaimed artistes, including Canadian pop sensation Justin Bieber, music legends Madonna and Shakira, as well as South Korean global music group BTS.
The star-studded event will also feature renowned Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel, British rock band Coldplay, and the acclaimed PS22 Chorus.
According to FIFA, the halftime performance will last approximately 11 minutes and is expected to be watched by billions of viewers across the world during the biggest football match of the year.
The entertainment segment has been designed to celebrate football while showcasing music from different cultures and genres.
Chris Martin Curates Historic Performance
The show has been curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, who worked with FIFA and Global Citizen to create what organisers describe as a celebration of music, unity and hope.
Beyond entertainment, the halftime show will also promote the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative aimed at expanding access to quality education and football opportunities for children worldwide.
The organisers said the performance is intended to leave a lasting social impact beyond the final match.
Infantino Highlights Education Mission
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the halftime show as an opportunity to unite people around the world while supporting an important global cause.
“When it comes to what the world needs, there is nothing more important than education,” Infantino said.
“We are proud to have Justin Bieber joining Madonna, Shakira and BTS to co-headline the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund and our mission to expand access to quality education and football opportunities for children around the world.”
He added that Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel and the PS22 Chorus, alongside Coldplay, would help deliver a message of hope and unity to audiences worldwide.
According to him, the historic performance will celebrate football and music while creating a legacy that extends beyond the final whistle.
Another Global Stage For Burna Boy
The announcement represents another major international milestone for Burna Boy, who has continued to elevate Afrobeats on the global stage through performances at prestigious events and collaborations with international stars.
Over the past few years, the singer has performed at some of the world’s biggest music festivals and award ceremonies, helping to introduce African music to wider audiences.
His inclusion in the World Cup final entertainment lineup further reinforces Afrobeats’ growing influence in global popular culture.
Afrobeats Continues Global Rise
Burna Boy’s appearance also highlights the increasing presence of Nigerian artistes at major international sporting events.
During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Nigerian musicians have continued to feature prominently in tournament-related performances, reflecting the worldwide popularity of Afrobeats.
Artists such as Burna Boy, Rema and Davido have all participated in events connected to the competition, showcasing Nigerian music before millions of football fans across the globe.
The inaugural halftime show is expected to become one of the defining moments of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, combining elite football with world-class entertainment in a format never before seen at a World Cup final.
For Burna Boy, the invitation represents yet another landmark achievement in a career that continues to break barriers for African music on the international stage.
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