A Star-Studded World Cup Final
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed enthusiasm for the idea of Canadian superstar Drake headlining the first-ever halftime show at the 2026 World Cup Final. The announcement comes as FIFA prepares to introduce a Super Bowl-style halftime show to the global football event, aiming to elevate the spectacle and attract a broader audience.
Infantino’s comments were made during an interview with Fox5, where he described the suggestion of Drake as the maiden headliner as a “good idea.”
The Halftime Show Initiative
FIFA recently revealed plans to collaborate with Coldplay’s lead vocalist, Chris Martin, to curate the inaugural halftime show for the 2026 World Cup Final. The event, set to take place at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey (renamed New York New Jersey Stadium for the tournament), will mark a historic moment in World Cup history.
Infantino’s openness to Drake as a potential headliner reflects FIFA’s ambition to blend sports and entertainment, creating a unique experience for fans worldwide.
Infantino’s Comments on Drake
During the interview, Infantino responded positively to the suggestion of Drake headlining the halftime show, hinting at a potential rivalry with Kendrick Lamar, who performed at the Super Bowl.
“So we can create a bit of rivalry, right? That’s a good idea. Actually, Drake was with us when we announced the host cities [of the tournament]… We will do that [sign him for the halftime show],” Infantino said.
A Global Spectacle
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, promises to be a landmark event. In addition to the halftime show, FIFA plans a “takeover” of Times Square in New York City during the final weekend of the tournament, further enhancing the global appeal of the event.
A New Era for the World Cup
The introduction of a halftime show at the World Cup Final represents a bold step by FIFA to modernize the tournament and attract a diverse audience. With the possibility of stars like Drake and Chris Martin taking the stage, the 2026 World Cup is set to be a celebration of both football and music.
As plans unfold, fans can look forward to an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of sport with the magic of live entertainment.