BTS Confirmed as Headliner for First-Ever World Cup Final ‘Halftime Show’!

'BTS', Awarded the Headliner Spot for the 'North America-Central America World Cup' Final 'Halftime Show'

'BTS' will take the stage alongside 'Madonna', 'Shakira' at the 2026 'North America-Central America World Cup' Final, where all eyes of soccer fans worldwide are on them, showcasing the overwhelming stature of a global pop icon through a 'Halftime Show' performance.

The group 'BTS' was selected as the first-ever 'Halftime Show' co-headliner for the 2026 International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) 'North America-Central America World Cup' Final, setting a new milestone in the history of popular music.

The international civic movement organization 'Global Citizen' and FIFA announced on the 14th in an official release that 'BTS' will perform at the final stage to be held on July 19 (local time) at the United States New York New Jersey Stadium. In particular, this performance will feature pop royalty 'Madonna' and the queen of Latin pop 'Shakira' joining as co-headliners, promising an unprecedentedly large-scale show.

A Fusion of Sports and Culture: The Good Influence Delivered by 'Global Citizen'

This is the first time in FIFA history that a 'Halftime Show' will be introduced at a World Cup final. Beyond a simple celebration performance, it carries a strong ambition to unite the world by blending sports and music culture. 'Global Citizen', which leads efforts to end poverty and tackle climate change, will take the event further through a fundraising campaign for the 'FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund' for children in marginalized areas, maximizing its significance.

'BTS' has continued consistent global collaboration, including participating in 'Global Citizen Live' in 2021, and member 'Jung Kook' fully delivering singing for the 2023 'Global Citizen Festival' and performing on the official sound track for the 2022 Qatar World Cup 'Dreamers', as well as the opening ceremony performance.

Their agency, BigHit Music, said, "It’s a great honor to stand on a meaningful stage that brings the whole world together," adding, "Music is a universal language that delivers hope and unity. Sharing our message with global viewers and contributing to expanding educational opportunities for children is even more meaningful."

'Chris Martin' Serves as Chief Creative Lead and Takes Bold Steps with the World Tour 'Arirang'

The overall creative direction of this 'Halftime Show', which will be broadcast live to hundreds of millions of viewers around the world, is handled by globally renowned band Coldplay’s 'Chris Martin', guaranteeing musical perfection. In addition, 'Sesame Street' and 'Muppet' characters will also join the lineup, creating a moment of harmony that can resonate with audiences of all generations.

Meanwhile, 'BTS' will hold their world tour 'Arirang' at Stanford Stadium in the United States on the 16th–17th and the 20th. This will mark the first time ever for a Korean artist to hold a solo concert at the venue. Riding the momentum, they are expected to bring the tour’s energy to its peak on the 23rd–24th and 27th–28th at the Las Vegas Allegiant Stadium.