Citing sources from Global Citizen Organization, singers Madonna, Shakira and BTS have agreed to participate in the half-time break program of the 2026 World Cup final to support social activities instead of receiving performance fees. Justin Bieber, who was announced to be added to the squad later, is also said to participate in a similar model.
Although not receiving cat-xe like commercial performances, the artists are still paid by the organizers for all production, logistics and training costs. However, the specific level of support as well as the terms for each artist are not disclosed.
The half-time break program is accompanied by many major commercial partners. FIFA previously announced Topps as the sponsor of the program's naming rights, alongside brands such as Visa, Bank of America, DoorDash, Marriott Bonvoy, YouTube Music and many other partners. These businesses participate through sponsorship, brand promotion and event production support.
US media reported that the music performance lasted about 11 minutes, while the total break time between rounds was nearly 27 minutes to serve the installation and dismantling of the stage.
The program opened with Madonna, followed by a performance by the orchestra led by conductor Gustavo Dudamel. BTS brought the song "Dynamite", before Justin Bieber appeared with a refreshed acoustic version of "Everything Hallelujah". Closing the program was a collaboration between Shakira and Burna Boy with the official song of the tournament "Dai Dai".
In addition to entertainment elements, the program also carries a charity message when aiming to raise funds for FIFA's Global Citizens' Education Fund. The Fund aims to raise 100 million USD to expand access to education and football programs for children around the world.
According to FIFA, the fund has raised more than 60 million USD before the final match, and the organization also committed to deducting 1 USD from each ticket sold throughout the tournament to contribute to the fund.
Notably, Shakira is said to be donating all the copyright money of the official song "Dai Dai" to this education fund.
In addition, Sony Music also pledged to contribute the corresponding amount of the first 250,000 USD raised from the release of the song.
The half-time program of the 2026 World Cup will not only be a performance gathering many top world stars but also an event combining entertainment, social responsibility and fundraising activities for global education.
